Lentil cream soup

Lentil Cream Soup – a healthy and comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you're looking for a simple and quick recipe for a delicious soup that combines taste with health, then lentil cream soup is the perfect choice. Rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, lentils will not only satisfy your hunger but also provide significant nutritional value.

Ingredients:
- 250 g lentils (preferably green or red lentils)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 liter vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for serving)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:
1. Start by rinsing the lentils well under cold running water to remove any impurities. This step is essential for achieving a clean and fresh-tasting soup.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. This technique will develop the flavors that will form the base of your soup.
3. Add the carrots and garlic, stirring well. Continue to sauté everything for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed lentils and diced potato to the pot, stirring to combine the ingredients. If you desire a more complex flavor, now is the time to add the ground cumin.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer covered for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and potato are tender.
6. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until you achieve a creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in small batches to a regular blender. Be careful of the steam to avoid burns!
7. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. The balsamic vinegar added at the end will bring a pleasant contrast and enhance the flavors.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the lentil cream soup warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This soup pairs wonderfully with slices of toasted bread or crunchy croutons, offering a contrast of textures in every bite.

Variations:
To diversify the recipe, you can add spices such as turmeric or sweet paprika, which will give it a vibrant appearance and unique flavor. You can also substitute lentils with beans or chickpeas to explore new tastes.

This lentil cream soup is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent source of nutrients. With simple preparation, it is ideal for cool evenings or to be enjoyed as a hearty lunch. Try this recipe and enjoy a healthy and comforting meal!