Simple Lentil Veggie Soup with Bacon
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Simple Lentil Veggie Soup
Looking for a hearty, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner or lunch option? Look no further than our Simple Lentil Veggie Soup! This soup is packed with flavor, nutrients, and is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick and satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness.
Lentil soup is a classic for a reason – it’s affordable, filling, and incredibly versatile. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. We’ve combined the earthiness of lentils with a vibrant mix of carrots, celery, onion, and a touch of spice for a soup that will warm you from the inside out.
What makes this recipe special?
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have many of these pantry staples already!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, and this soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add your favorite herbs and spices!
Tips for the Best Lentil Soup:
- Lentil Type: We recommend brown or green lentils for this recipe. Red lentils will break down more and create a thicker soup.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking. A little goes a long way!
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it Vegetarian/Vegan: Simply omit the bacon bits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked lentils?
A: While you can, it’s not recommended. Pre-cooked lentils may become mushy during the final cooking process. It’s best to start with dry lentils.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: What if I don’t have Mrs. Dash seasoning?
A: You can substitute with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite herbs.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the ingredients in your bacon bits and seasoning to ensure they are also gluten-free.
We hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful Simple Lentil Veggie Soup! It’s a perfect meal for any time of year.
Simple Lentil Veggie Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry lentils
- 1 each carrots peeled and chopped
- 1 each onion chopped
- 8 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 each celery chopped
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup kale chopped
- 1 can crushed tomatoes in a tomato puree
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1 tsp Mrs. Dash Garlic and Herb seasoning
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper Or more depending on the spice level you like
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- First cook 2 cups of lentils in 8 cups of water, as directed on package.
- In a separate pot, while the lentils are cooking, add chicken broth, carrots, celery and onion. Bring to a boil, then cook 10 minutes.
- Next add the lentils, corn, kale, tomatoes, bacon bits, Mrs. Dash, cayenne and salt and pepper. Let cook 15 to 20 minutes. Enjoy!
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