Description
A nourishing and flavorful lentil soup packed with vegetables and spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 inch fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup green lentils (rinsed)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., chopped zucchini, spinach, kale)
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 lemon (juiced, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, filling the air with a warm aroma.
- Add ground turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes if using. Cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their flavors.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in rinsed lentils, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- Add chopped greens or quick-cooking vegetables in the last 10 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
- Check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup for brightness and stir well.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, extra herbs if desired, and enjoy its vibrant, velvety richness.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for several days.
- Great served with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg