Amazing Classic Lentil Soup for a Cozy, Delicious Meal

The aroma of simmering spices fills the air, enveloping you in a warm, cozy embrace. Imagine a bowl of Classic Lentil Soup, bubbling gently on the stove, promising to wrap you in comfort with each delightful spoonful. It’s like a hug from your grandma—if she were a soup pot! This dish is more than just food; it’s a heartfelt experience, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.

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As you ladle this vibrant concoction into your favorite bowl, memories of family dinners and laughter come rushing back. Each lentil tells a story; every carrot adds a splash of color and joy to the mix. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or just an ordinary Tuesday that needs spicing up, this Classic Lentil Soup delivers both flavor and warmth like no other.

Ingredients for Classic Lentil Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Classic Lentil Soup:

• Green or Brown Lentils: Choose firm lentils that hold their shape well during cooking; they are the stars of this hearty soup!
• Carrots: Fresh, diced carrots add sweetness and color to the mix; opt for organic if possible for better flavor.
• Celery: Chopped celery provides crunch and depth; look for stalks that are firm and bright green.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion brings aromatic goodness to the base of your soup; choose yellow onions for a balanced sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds an irresistible zing; don’t skimp on this ingredient—it’s essential!
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth as your soup’s liquid base to keep flavors rich without being overly salty.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor while sautéing your veggies—go extra virgin if you can!
• Bay Leaves: Toss in a couple of bay leaves while simmering; they add an earthy aroma that’s simply divine.
• Thyme: Dried thyme gives your soup that classic touch; feel free to use fresh if you’ve got it!
• Salt & Pepper: Season generously to taste—this will elevate all the other flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Classic Lentil Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Classic Lentil Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle about two tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant—about five minutes should do the trick!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic along with dried thyme and two bay leaves. Cook for another minute until everything is beautifully aromatic.

Step 3: Throw in Those Lentils

Now it’s time to add one cup of green or brown lentils to the party! Stir them into the veggie mix until they’re well coated with all that flavorful goodness.

Step 4: Pour in Some Broth

Pour in four cups of vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer gently for about twenty-five minutes or until those lentils are tender.

Step 5: Season it Up

Once your lentils are cooked through, season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Give it a good stir!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle your steaming Classic Lentil Soup into bowls! Drizzle with some extra virgin olive oil if you’re feeling fancy or sprinkle fresh herbs on top for that gourmet touch.

So there you have it! A heartwarming bowl of Classic Lentil Soup that’s easy to whip up but tastes like you’ve been slaving away all day (we won’t tell). Enjoy every single sip!

Perfecting Classic Lentil Soup Cooking Process

Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots until fragrant. Add lentils, broth, and spices, then let it simmer gently. This order ensures each ingredient shines while blending beautifully together in your Classic Lentil Soup.

Add Your Touch to Classic Lentil Soup

Feel free to swap green lentils for red, toss in some spinach or kale, or spice things up with cumin or smoked paprika. The beauty of Classic Lentil Soup lies in how you can personalize it to match your cravings.

Storing & Reheating Classic Lentil Soup

Store your Classic Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water to restore its creamy texture and enjoy!

Once you’ve got the basics down, here are some tips from my kitchen to yours:

– Rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris or dust, ensuring a clean and delicious dish.

– Avoid overcooking the soup; lentils should be tender but not mushy for that perfect texture.

– Enhance flavor by letting the soup sit overnight; it only gets better with time!

There was that one chilly evening when I served this soup at a family gathering. Everyone raved about how comforting it was; my aunt even asked for seconds! Moments like that remind me why I love making Classic Lentil Soup so much!

FAQs About Classic Lentil Soup

What is Classic Lentil Soup?

Classic Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish made primarily from lentils, vegetables, and spices. This comforting soup is not only easy to prepare but also rich in protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. The base typically includes onions, carrots, and celery, often seasoned with garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Many variations exist, allowing you to customize the soup with additional ingredients like tomatoes or greens. Overall, Classic Lentil Soup is both delicious and wholesome.

How long does Classic Lentil Soup last in the fridge?

Classic Lentil Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days when kept in an airtight container. Ensure that the soup cools down to room temperature before refrigerating it to maintain its quality. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing it. When frozen properly, Classic Lentil Soup can last up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.

Can I freeze Classic Lentil Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Classic Lentil Soup! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve its flavors for later enjoyment. To do so, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What are some variations of Classic Lentil Soup?

There are numerous variations of Classic Lentil Soup that cater to different tastes and preferences. For instance, you can add diced tomatoes for a tangy flavor or incorporate spinach for added nutrition. Some recipes may include spices like cumin or coriander for an exotic twist. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of lentils such as green or red lentils which alter the texture and taste of your soup while still maintaining its classic appeal. For more inspiration, check out this Chickpea Salad recipe .

Conclusion for Classic Lentil Soup

Classic Lentil Soup is a versatile dish that offers both comfort and nourishment. Its rich blend of lentils and vegetables provides essential nutrients while being easy to prepare at home. You can enjoy this soup in various ways by trying different ingredients or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a cozy gathering, Classic Lentil Soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite!

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Classic Lentil Soup

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• Author: Aliza
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Classic Lentil Soup is a nourishing, heartwarming dish that combines earthy lentils with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave comfort food, this soup not only warms the soul but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, Classic Lentil Soup is a delightful addition to your mealtime repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and bay leaves; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add lentils and stir to coat with vegetables.
4. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 25 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 0mg