Vegetable soup with lentils

Vegetable Soup with Lentils – A Healthy Delight for Every Day

Vegetable soup with lentils is a classic recipe, loved by many generations, that brings together the fresh flavors of vegetables with the nutritional benefits of lentils. It is a comforting dish, perfect for cooler days or for moments when you want to indulge your taste buds with a delicious yet healthy meal. This soup is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins. Let's see step by step how to prepare it!

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

Ingredients:

- 2 carrots
- 1 white root (white beet or parsnip)
- 1/4 celery
- 2 medium onions
- 1 potato
- 1 handful of lentils (about 200g)
- 100g noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 liter of borscht or cabbage juice (boiled separately)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil

Necessary utensils:

- A large pot for boiling
- A chopping board
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon for stirring
- A blender (optional, for a smoother consistency)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Cut the carrots, white root, and celery into small cubes, and chop the onion finely. Dice the potato, and rinse the lentils well under cold water.

2. Sauté the vegetables:
In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, white root, and celery. Continue to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the lentils:
After the vegetables have softened, add the diced potato and rinsed lentils. Pour in about 1 liter of water (or as much as needed to cover the ingredients) and let it boil. The lentils will cook in about 20 minutes, so make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. The noodles and borscht:
After 10 minutes of boiling, add the noodles to the pot. They will cook quickly, so do not leave them in the water for too long. After another 5 minutes, add the boiled borscht and tomato juice. Season with salt to taste.

5. Finalizing the soup:
Once all the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have melded, turn off the heat. Sprinkle the chopped herbs on top and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend.

Serving suggestions:

Vegetable soup with lentils is delicious served hot, alongside crispy bread croutons or with a slice of fresh bread. If you are a fan of spice, you can add freshly chopped chili for a kick of heat. This recipe pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a beetroot salad for an extra boost of nutrients and freshness.

Nutritional benefits:

Lentils are a superfood that brings numerous health benefits. They are rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to heart health and lowering cholesterol levels. Additionally, consuming lentils helps maintain digestive health due to their high fiber content.

Possible variations:

If you want to customize your soup, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for a touch of greenery. Another option is to add spices like cumin or turmeric to enhance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions, but it is recommended to add the noodles just before serving to maintain their texture.

3. What drinks can I serve alongside?
This soup pairs perfectly with a glass of mineral water or an herbal tea. If you prefer something more substantial, a fresh lemonade will complement the flavors excellently.

With this vegetable soup with lentils, you have all the ingredients for a healthy and comforting meal. So, put on your chef's attire and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!