Lentil cream soup with vegetables

Lentil Cream Soup with Vegetables – A Healthy and Comforting Delicacy

When it comes to dishes that combine health with flavor, lentil cream soup with vegetables is certainly one of the most inspired choices. This recipe is not only an excellent option for fasting days, but it also offers an explosion of flavors that will delight all the senses. Moreover, it is simple to prepare, and the ingredients are accessible, making this soup a quick and nourishing delight.

Recipe History

Lentil soup is a dish with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often associated with healthy and sustainable eating. Lentils have been cultivated and consumed for thousands of years, and the soup has become a popular way to include them in the diet. This recipe not only reminds us of traditions but also offers the opportunity to experiment with various ingredients, adapting it to personal tastes.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: 55-55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 red onion (about 150g)
- 1 carrot (about 100g)
- 1 parsley root (about 80g)
- 1 celery stalk (about 100g)
- 1 potato (about 150g)
- 3-4 cauliflower florets (about 200g)
- 6-7 cherry tomatoes (about 150g)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 250g lentils (preferably green or red lentils)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: croutons for serving, fresh parsley for garnish

Step by Step: How to Prepare Lentil Cream Soup with Vegetables

1. Ingredient preparation: Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Dice the red onion, carrot, parsley root, and celery into small cubes. Cut the potato into cubes and the cauliflower florets in half. You can leave the cherry tomatoes whole or cut them in half, according to your preference.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, parsley, and celery and sauté them gently for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and soft. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the soup.

3. Adding the lentils: Once the vegetables have softened, add the lentils to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to combine the flavors.

4. Adding the other vegetables: Now it's time to add the potato, cauliflower, and cherry tomatoes. Mix the ingredients well, then pour in water (about 1.5-2 liters) to cover all the vegetables well.

5. Boiling the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer over medium heat for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are well cooked and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

6. Blending the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in small portions to a regular blender, being careful not to burn yourself.

7. Seasoning: After blending, adjust the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add a splash of lemon juice or a few fresh herbs, such as thyme or basil.

8. Serving: Serve the lentil cream soup warm, adding a drizzle of raw olive oil on top and crispy croutons. You can garnish the plate with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Types of lentils: Green lentils have a firmer texture, while red lentils will break down more easily, resulting in a creamier soup. Choose the type that suits your preferences!
- Vegetarian option: This soup is already vegetarian, but you can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to vary the taste.
- Alternative servings: If you want a special touch, you can add roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top of the soup for extra crunchiness.

Nutritional Benefits

This lentil soup is rich in plant-based proteins, being an excellent source of iron and fiber. Lentils contribute to maintaining healthy digestion and help control blood sugar levels, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants. A serving of this soup can have approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and croutons added.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils, but make sure to rinse them well before use. In this case, reduce the cooking time, as canned lentils are already cooked.

2. Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Lentil cream soup freezes excellently. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach, depending on your preferences. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect mix!

This lentil cream soup with vegetables is not just a healthy choice, but also a culinary experience full of warmth and comfort. Prepare it for a family dinner or to indulge yourself on a chilly day, and enjoy every spoonful!