Lentil soup is a timeless classic, offering warmth, nutrition, and incredible flavor in every spoonful.
Let’s dive into the steps for crafting a nourishing bowl of lentil soup that bursts with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of wholesome ingredients to bring this recipe to life:
- 1 cup of dried lentils (red, green, or brown)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil for a richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 stalk of celery, diced
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (for a touch of acidity)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing your lentils thoroughly under cold water. Lentils often contain small debris, so double-check for any impurities. Chop all your vegetables, including onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and optional shiitake mushrooms, to streamline the cooking process.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, stirring frequently for about 3 minutes. Allow them to soften and release their aroma. Toss in the carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to caramelize slightly.
If you’ve decided to include shiitake mushrooms, now is the time to add them. Stir them into the pot, letting them brown lightly. The mushrooms will infuse the soup with a deep, umami flavor.
3. Add the Spices
To deepen the flavor, stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric powder, and thyme. Cook the spices for 1 minute, allowing them to bloom and coat the vegetables evenly. This step amplifies the aromatic base of your soup.
4. Incorporate the Lentils and Tomatoes
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the canned diced tomatoes. Stir everything well to combine. The tomatoes bring acidity and sweetness, balancing the earthy flavors of the lentils and spices.
5. Pour in the Broth
Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, stirring as you go. Add the bay leaf, and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to let steam escape.
6. Simmer and Stir
Allow the soup to simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils should become tender yet retain their shape. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra depth of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pot. The citrus will brighten the dish and enhance its complexity.
8. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, removing the bay leaf beforehand. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro. If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red chili flakes on top for a fiery kick.
Tips for Customization
- Shiitake Mushrooms: If shiitake mushrooms are unavailable, substitute with cremini or button mushrooms. They may lack the intense umami flavor of shiitake but still provide a satisfying texture.
- Creaminess: For a creamier soup, blend half of the mixture using an immersion blender, then mix it back into the pot.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans for an extra protein punch.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with other spices such as curry powder or garam masala for a global twist.
Why Lentil Soup?
Lentil soup is more than just a comforting dish. It offers numerous health benefits, making it a powerhouse meal.
Lentils are rich in plant-based protein, making them a perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians. They’re also high in dietary fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.
The colorful array of vegetables in this recipe ensures you get a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals in every serving.
Storage and Reheating
This lentil soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days.
The flavors deepen over time, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!
To reheat, pour the soup into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth to thin it out, if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty soup with crusty whole-grain bread or warm pita. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the flavors beautifully. For a Mediterranean flair, add a dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta (if you’re vegetarian).
This vegan and vegetarian lentil soup with optional shiitake mushrooms combines wholesome ingredients, bold spices, and practical cooking techniques to create a soul-soothing dish perfect for any meal.
