Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup
Cozy Up with Hearty Lentil Soup: A Mediterranean Delight
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Hearty Lentil Soup – a flavorful and nutritious dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. This isn’t just any lentil soup; it’s packed with vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a depth of flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup a healthy and filling meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
What makes this Hearty Lentil Soup special?
- Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of thyme and oregano brings a beautiful Mediterranean aroma and taste.
- Vegetable Packed: We’ve loaded this soup with potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion for added nutrients and texture.
- Simple & Wholesome: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup is good for your body and soul.
- Budget-Friendly: Lentils are an affordable protein source, making this soup a great option for those on a budget.
Tips for the Best Lentil Soup:
- Rinse your lentils: This helps remove any debris and ensures a cleaner-tasting soup.
- Don’t skip the sauté: Sautéing the vegetables builds a flavorful base for the soup.
- Simmer, simmer, simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a good 25-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the lentils to become tender.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy this Hearty Lentil Soup with a slice of warm crusty bread for dipping, or pair it with a fresh side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley add a beautiful finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of lentils?
A: Yes, you can! Brown or green lentils work best in this recipe. Red lentils will cook much faster and may become mushy.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Q: Is this soup vegetarian/vegan?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan.
Q: Can I add meat to this soup?
A: Certainly! You could add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham to the soup for added protein and flavor.
Hearty Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils rinsed
- 2 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse lentils under cold water.
- Peel and dice potatoes, chop onion, carrots, and celery, and mince garlic.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and lentils. Cook for a couple of minutes to blend flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils and potatoes are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm bread or a side salad.
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