Lentil soup

Lentil Soup with Vegetables - A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Lentil soup is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a healthy and comforting dish. This traditional recipe combines the richness of lentils with fresh vegetables, creating a mix full of flavor and nutrients. Perfect for cool evenings, this soup will not only warm your soul but also fill you up.

The History of Lentil Soup

Lentil soup has been prepared for generations around the world, with each culture adding its unique touch. Lentils, an affordable and nutritious ingredient, have been used throughout history as a source of protein for people from all corners of the globe. This recipe represents a simple yet delicious variant that can be customized according to your preferences.

Essential Ingredients

- 400 g lentils (preferably green or brown lentils)
- 1 celery root (about 150 g)
- 2 carrots (about 200 g)
- 1 large onion
- 1 large potato (about 250 g)
- 1 parsnip (about 150 g)
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for added color)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 100 g butter
- 3 liters of water
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- A large bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Practical Tips for Ingredients

When choosing lentils, opt for organic if possible. Green or brown lentils have a firmer texture and a stronger flavor, while red lentils cook faster and become softer. If you want a creamier soup, you can use red lentils. Make sure all vegetables are fresh, and the parsley should be vibrant and green to add a fresh taste to your dish.

Step by Step: Preparing Lentil Soup

1. Preparing the lentils: Rinse the lentils well in several waters to remove any impurities. This step is essential to get rid of any debris or dust.

2. Boiling the lentils: Place the lentils in a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, discard the water. This step helps reduce substances that may cause digestive discomfort.

3. Adding the vegetables: Put the lentils back in the pot and add 3 liters of clean water. Add the vegetables cut into large pieces (leave the onion whole and add the garlic at the end). Let it simmer over medium heat for about 25-30 minutes.

4. Straining the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, strain the mixture, keeping the water in which they boiled. Discard the celery, onion, bell pepper, and parsnip, but keep the lentils, potato, and carrots.

5. Preparing the lentil paste: Use a food processor or blender to turn the cooked lentils, potato, and carrots into a paste. Add the bunch of parsley as well. This will add not only flavor but also a note of freshness.

6. Cooking the soup: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the lemon juice and the lentil mixture. Sauté everything for 2-3 minutes.

7. Adjusting the consistency: Gradually add the water in which the vegetables boiled, adjusting the soup's consistency to your liking. Let it simmer over low heat for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

8. Finalizing the soup: 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the crushed garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. You can taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.

Serving and Pairings

Lentil soup is delicious served warm, alongside a spoonful of creamy yogurt or salty cheese. Finely chopped red onion can add a pleasant contrast. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread or crispy croutons.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even spinach can be excellent additions.

2. How can I make the soup vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can replace the butter with olive oil for a vegan version.

3. Can I store the soup?
Yes! Lentil soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it in portions to enjoy later.

Nutritional Benefits

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, being rich in minerals such as iron and magnesium. They contribute to digestive health and help maintain optimal energy levels. The added vegetables bring essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this soup not only tasty but also nutritious.

Possible Variations

If you want a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. You can experiment with herbs like basil or dill to give a different flavor dimension. Using this recipe as a base, you can create countless variations, each with its unique flavor.

A Personal Note

I fondly remember the evenings when my grandmother made this lentil soup. The inviting aroma filled the whole house, and each spoonful was a warm embrace. I encourage you to remember the beautiful moments spent with loved ones while enjoying this dish. Add your personal touch, perhaps a drizzle of aromatic olive oil or a slice of fresh lemon on your plate, and share this recipe with your loved ones.

Enjoy your meal!