Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup Recipe - Comforting and Easy

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When illness strikes or the chill of a winter evening settles in, nothing beats a steaming bowl of soup to lift your spirits and nourish your body. If you're in search of a cozy, comforting dish that's healthy and satisfying, this simple yet delicious vegan lentil soup recipe is for you. Packed with nutrients, easy to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or as a soothing remedy when you're feeling sick.

Let’s create a dish that’s not just a meal, but a warm hug in a bowl!

Bowl of lentil soup

Why Lentil Soup?

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, boasting 18 grams of protein per cooked cup and a remarkable 15.6 grams of dietary fiber, which is approximately 63% of the daily recommended intake. This makes them an excellent base for a hearty soup. When you're unwell, lentils can help you regain strength, thanks to their high iron content—approximately 15% of your daily requirement in one serving.

Furthermore, lentil soup is incredibly versatile. You can personalize it with your favorite vegetables and spices, creating a unique dish every time. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a healthier option, lentil soup is the ultimate feel-good meal!

Vegan Lentil Soup Recipe

Here's what you’ll need for this delightful vegan lentil soup:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced.

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 stalks of celery, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 6 cups vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale

• Juice of 1 small lemon or half a large lemon

• Parsley or cilantro to serve

  
  

Optional Ingredients

This recipe is very versatile. Consider adding spices like turmeric or other vegetables like zucchini for extra nutrition.

Steps to Make Vegan Lentil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, then throw in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. This foundational step builds the flavor of your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. At this point, the delightful aroma will fill your kitchen! Relying on intuition, sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, and thyme. Stir everything together and let it toast for a minute to enhance their flavors.

Step 3: Combine Lentils and Liquid

Pour in the vegetable broth followed by the rinsed dried lentils. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

A pot of boiling lentil soup filled with ingredients.

Step 4: Add Greens

As the lentils near completion, prepare to finish your soup by adding the fresh spinach. When the lentils are tender, stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until it wilts. Finally, squeeze in the lemon juice for a refreshing zing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Your vibrant vegan lentil soup is ready! Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and savor it with crusty bread or a side salad for a wholesome meal. Don’t hesitate to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an appealing touch.

Tips for Making the Best Vegan Lentil Soup

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance flavor.

  
  

• Cook longer for depth: If time allows, simmer the soup for a longer period to develop deeper flavors.

  
  

• Blend for creaminess: Consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.

  
  

• Batch it and freeze: Make a large quantity and freeze individual portions, ensuring you have a quick meal ready when energy levels are low.