Blonde lentil soup

Blonde Lentil Soup - a comforting and nutrient-rich dish

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the savory universe of blonde lentil soup! This recipe, as simple as it is delicious, has a fascinating story. Originating from the Mediterranean regions and rooted in the culinary traditions of the Arab world, lentils have won the hearts of many due to their remarkable nutritional benefits. This legume is rich in fiber and protein but extremely low in calories, making it a perfect ingredient for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

In this recipe, I will share with you the adapted version that I learned from my mother-in-law. I added a tomato sauce that gives it a rich flavor and a fresh note, transforming it into a perfect soup not only for fasting days but also for any meal where you want to indulge in something tasty and healthy.

Your ingredients for a delicious blonde lentil soup are:

- 300 g medium blonde lentils (you can also use small or thicker lentils, but medium is ideal)
- 100 g tomato sauce (choose a sauce with chunks of tomatoes for a more authentic taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Oregano, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, freshly ground, to preference
- 3-4 tablespoons vinegar (depending on how sour you like it)

Now that we have all the ingredients at hand, let’s start preparing step by step!

Step 1: Preparing the lentils
Start by washing the lentils well under a stream of cold water. Then, place the lentils in a pot with water and add a little salt. Boil the lentils for 15 minutes. It is important not to overcook them, as we want to keep their texture. After boiling, drain the lentils and set them aside.

Step 2: The base flavors
In the same pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to take on a golden hue. This step is essential, as the sautéed onion will add a sweet and deep flavor to your soup.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
Add the boiled lentils, tomato sauce, and bay leaf to the pot. Mix well to combine the flavors. Then, add warm water until all the ingredients are covered. Let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finalizing the soup
About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the vinegar. This will give the soup an interesting and vibrant flavor. If you notice that the soup is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency. The goal is to get a creamy soup texture, but not so thick that you can’t enjoy the broth.

Step 5: Seasoning
After you have turned off the heat, add salt and pepper to taste. I recommend adding the pepper at the end, as it will retain its aroma and nutritional value. You can also add a sliced carrot if you want a sweet note and extra texture.

Serving
The blonde lentil soup is delicious served hot, alongside a piece of feta cheese and some chopped green onions. This combination will perfectly complement the soup's flavor and add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits
Your soup line is not only tasty but also extremely healthy. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, B vitamins, iron, and essential minerals. It is an ideal choice for a light lunch or a quick dinner. A serving of blonde lentil soup has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese added.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add various vegetables, such as celery or potatoes, or enrich the soup with spices like cumin or turmeric for an exotic flavor. You can also turn this soup into a main dish by adding crunchy croutons or even cooked chicken.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use green or red lentils?
Sure, but the cooking time will vary. Green lentils generally require more cooking time, while red lentils cook faster.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a little dried chili or chili flakes during cooking to give it a spicy kick.

3. What other garnishes can I use?
This soup pairs perfectly with fresh bread, croutons, or even a simple green salad.

4. Is the soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan and perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

Conclusion
Blonde lentil soup is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful dish. With every spoonful, you will enjoy not only the taste but also a nourishing meal that will warm your soul. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your preferences. Once you learn this soup base, you will be able to experiment and create unique recipes that will bring joy and flavor to every meal! Bon appétit!