Lentil Cream Soup

Red Lentil Cream Soup - A comforting and healthy delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of intense and comforting flavors! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a red lentil cream soup, a simple and quick recipe, perfect for chilly days or when you feel the need for a light and nutritious meal. Lentils are not only a versatile ingredient but also an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals, making this soup a healthy and nourishing choice.

The history of lentil soup is fascinating, as lentils are one of the oldest cultivated plant crops, used for thousands of years in various culinary cultures. This cream soup recipe is a modern variant that preserves tradition while adding a personal and contemporary touch through rich flavors and a velvety texture.

Necessary ingredients:

- 500g red lentils
- 2 liters of water
- 2 large onions
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 carrots
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of dried mint
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of hot paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste (can be substituted with crushed tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sunflower oil for frying

Here’s how to prepare this wonderful soup:

1. Heating the oil: Start by placing a large pot over medium heat and adding about 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil. Make sure the oil is well heated, but do not let it smoke, as this can affect the taste of the dish.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onion. This will form the base of the soup's flavor. Add the onion to the hot oil and sauté for 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Meanwhile, peel the bell peppers and cut them into large cubes. Slice the carrots, and mince the garlic.

3. Cooking the vegetables: Add the bell peppers, carrots, and garlic to the pot over the onion. Mix well and let the vegetables soften for 5-7 minutes. This will help develop the flavors, and the enticing aroma will begin to fill your kitchen.

4. Adding the lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove impurities. Add the lentils to the pot along with 2 liters of water. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until the lentils are soft.

5. Seasoning: Once the lentils are cooked, add the mint, thyme, hot paprika (if you want a bit of spice), pepper paste, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Blending into cream: Once all the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have melded, take a blender and blend the soup until it becomes a smooth cream. If it is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. Don’t forget to remove some of the soup before blending if you want to keep some whole vegetables for a nice presentation.

7. Serving: Serve the cream soup warm, garnished with a few fresh mint leaves or a teaspoon of olive oil for added flavor. You can accompany the soup with crunchy croutons or toasted bread for a complete culinary experience.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with various spices, such as cumin or coriander, to add another level of flavor complexity.
- If you want a vegan version, make sure the pepper paste does not contain any animal ingredients.
- This cream soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional benefits:
Red lentils are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. Consuming lentils helps maintain digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and can contribute to heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
Yes, but the cooking time will be different, as green and brown lentils require more time to cook.

2. Is this soup suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is a healthy and nutrient-rich meal, but make sure not to add too much hot paprika.

3. How can I enrich the soup with additional protein?
You can add cubes of tofu or cooked chicken breast to increase the protein content.

Delicious combinations:
This red lentil cream soup pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a slice of toasted whole grain bread. You can also accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea for a complete and comforting meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to spend time in the kitchen and enjoy preparing a dish that is not only delicious but also healthy! Enjoy your meal!