Warm and Comforting Lentil Soup
When chilly weather calls for something cozy, this easy lentil soup is the perfect solution. Packed with earthy lentils, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices, this dish warms you from the inside out. Perfect for novice cooks, it’s a delightful way to gather friends and family around the table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion, celery, and carrots in a splash of oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in rinsed lentils with cumin powder, salt, and pepper; sauté for 2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves; bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- If using greens, stir them in during the last few minutes until wilted.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg