Best Simple Homemade Lentil Soup Recipe

This Lentil Soup recipe is not only hearty, healthy, and filling but also budget-friendly and absolutely delicious. Lentils simmered with vegetables and spices in a tasty broth create a homemade soup that is considered the absolute best lentil soup ever!

Best Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, picked over and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup chopped fresh collard greens or kale, tough ribs removed
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (1 medium lemon yields about 3 tablespoons)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil
   • Warm ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
   • Chop 1 medium yellow or white onion into small pieces.
   • Peel and chop 2 carrots into small pieces.
3. Cook the Onion and Carrots
   • Add the chopped onion and carrots to the pot. Cook while stirring frequently until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. The onions should look clear, and the carrots should begin to soften.
4. Add Garlic and Spices
   • Mince or press 4 garlic cloves and add it to the pot.
   • Measure and add 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon curry powder, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme.
   • Stir constantly while cooking until the mixture is very fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.
5. Add the Tomatoes
   • Carefully open and drain a large can (28 ounces) of diced tomatoes.
   • Pour the drained tomatoes into the pot and cook, stirring frequently, for a few more minutes.
6. Prepare and Add Lentils
   • Pick over and rinse 1 cup of brown or green lentils to remove any debris.
   • Add the lentils to the pot, followed by 4 cups vegetable broth and 2 cups water for proper cooking.
   • Add 1 teaspoon salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
   • Season generously with freshly ground black pepper.
7. Simmer the Soup
   • Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Once it starts boiling, partially cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. This process should take about 30 minutes.
8. Blend a Portion of the Soup
   • Carefully transfer 2 cups of the soup to a blender. Ensure that the lid is securely fastened, then blend until smooth.
   • Pour the blended mixture back into the pot to thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend a portion of the soup.
9. Add Greens
   • Chop 1 cup of collard greens or kale and remove any tough ribs.
   • Stir the chopped greens into the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the greens are softened.
10. Finish and Season
    • Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice. This will add a fresh flavor to the soup.
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as desired by adding more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice.

Enjoy your richly flavored and healthy lentil soup! Taking your time with each step will ensure that the flavors meld well.

Additional Tips:

• Soaking Lentils: It’s not necessary to soak lentils before making this soup.
• Soup Consistency: Adjust the soup to your desired thickness by adding more broth as needed.
• Storing: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm it over medium-low heat, adding a bit of broth if the soup has thickened in storage.

Variations:

• Add some plain yogurt for creaminess.
• Stir in fresh spinach or kale for added greens.
• Begin the recipe by cooking bacon for a smoky flavor, and garnish with crispy bacon bits.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley for freshness.

Enjoy your hearty and delicious lentil soup!