Lentil Soup

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Yellow lentil soup is a heartwarming and nutritious dish that's perfect for any time of year. This soup features yellow lentils, which are known for their mild, nutty flavor and smooth texture. They cook relatively quickly, making them a convenient choice for weeknight dinners.

This recipe starts with a base of sautéed onions, carrots, and celery, creating a fragrant and flavorful foundation. Garlic and a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika are added to infuse the soup with warmth and depth. The yellow lentils are then simmered with vegetable broth and diced tomatoes until they become tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

A touch of lemon juice is added at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors, and a garnish of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant note. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup yellow lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
  • Olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: in a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Add the Aromatics: stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.

  3. Incorporate Lentils and Broth: add the yellow lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.

  4. Simmer the Soup: bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  5. Season and Finish: remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

  6. Serve: ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for an extra touch of richness, if desired.


Tips and Variations

  • Add Greens: for extra nutrition, stir in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
  • Protein Boost: add cooked chicken or tofu cubes for additional protein.
  • Spicy Kick: if you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when you add the other spices.

This yellow lentil soup is a delicious and nutritious way to warm up on a chilly day. It's easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy comfort of a homemade bowl of soup!

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