If you’re looking for a hearty and nutritious meal, look no further than our favorite lentil soup recipe. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a healthy meal option. Read on for the full recipe and step-by-step instructions to warm your soul with a bowl of delicious homemade lentil soup.
The benefits of lentils
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans. Packed with fiber, lentils promote digestive health and contribute to a feeling of fullness, which can support weight management. Additionally, lentils are rich in essential nutrients such as iron, folate, and manganese, offering various health benefits including improved energy levels and enhanced red blood cell production. Consuming lentils regularly can also help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet for individuals with diabetes or those looking to reduce the risk of developing the condition.
the green sauce
The addition of the green sauce brings a burst of fresh flavors and aromatic notes to the lentil soup, transforming it from a simple dish to something truly special. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic in the green sauce infuses the dish with layers of fresh and vibrant flavor, enhancing its overall richness and complexity of the lentil soup.
So, although completely optional, stirred it in just before serving, the herby sauce will elevate a good lentil soup into an extraordinary lentil soup!
Enjoy!
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Our Favorite Lentil Soup
Ingredients
For the lentil soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup onion diced
- ½ cup celery chopped
- 1 cup carrot diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 lb French green or brown lentils
- 6 cups vegetable stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the green sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup cilantro (chopped fine)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- ground pepper to taste
- red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
For the lentil soup
- Heat olive oil in a large (6 quart) pot.
- Over medium-high heat, saute the onions, celery and carrots until golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and saute another two minutes: add tomato paste and cook a couple more minutes to caramelize and deepen the flavor of the tomato.
- Add the lentils, bay leaf and the broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the soup for 40-45 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
For the green sauce
- Mix all of the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until fine. You can also use a mortar and pestle to mash the ingredients together. Drizzle over the lentil soup and serve.
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