Simply Smoky Lentil Soup
Cozy Up with Simply Smoky Lentil Soup
As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, flavorful soup to warm you from the inside out. Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Simply Smoky Lentil Soup – a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor and goodness. This isn’t your average lentil soup; the touch of smokiness elevates it to something truly special.
Lentil soup is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. It’s incredibly nutritious, being a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! This recipe is designed to be simple, using readily available ingredients, but delivering a complex and satisfying taste. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting broth.
What makes this soup smoky? The secret lies in using bacon or other smoked meat pieces. This adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get from just vegetable broth alone. Don’t worry, it’s not overpowering – just a subtle smokiness that complements the earthy lentils perfectly.
Tips for the Best Simply Smoky Lentil Soup:
- Soaking the Lentils: Don’t skip the soaking step! It helps reduce cooking time and makes the lentils more digestible.
- Low and Slow: Simmering the soup on low heat is key to developing the flavors. Be patient – it’s worth the wait!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or spinach to customize the soup to your liking.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
This Simply Smoky Lentil Soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual gathering with friends, or a healthy and satisfying lunch. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes! Simply omit the bacon or smoked meat and use a vegetable broth. You might want to add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Q: Can I use red lentils instead of green lentils?
A: While you can, the texture will be different. Red lentils tend to break down more and create a creamier soup. Green lentils hold their shape better and provide a more substantial texture.
Q: How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?
A: This soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve over time!
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Simply Smoky Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups green lentils soaked in water for 4 hours
- 1/4 cup bacon or smoked meat pieces uncooked
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 leaf bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the meat until crispy then add the onion.
- Add the pre-soaked lentils and stir for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to seep into the beans.
- Add the stock and simmer covered on low heat for about an hour and a half, stirring every thirty minutes.
- Soup is done when beans are soft and the broth is brown and beginning to get thick. Mix well.
Share this:
Discover more from Resoupies
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
