Winter is the most suitable season of the year to prepare a hearty lentil soup, a type of legume that is also used as an ingredient in stews and even salads. Its nutritional properties are numerous, which highlights the importance of including it in our diet. With a delicious flavor...

Lentil Soup recipe
Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
50min
Total Time
1hr

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)
  • lentils
    lentils
    2cups
  • vegetable broth
    vegetable broth
    3cups
  • medium carrots, chopped
    medium carrots, chopped
    3
  • stalks celery, chopped
    stalks celery, chopped
    2
  • onion, chopped
    onion, chopped
    1
  • fresh bay leaf
    fresh bay leaf
    1
  • ham, diced
    ham, diced
    100g
  • Worcestershire sauce
    Worcestershire sauce
    1tbsp
  • garlic, minced
    garlic, minced
    1clove
  • ground nutmeg
    ground nutmeg
    1/4tsp
  • ground cumin
    ground cumin
    1/4tsp
  • black pepper
    black pepper
    1/2tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1/2tsp
  • parsley, chopped
    parsley, chopped
    1tsp

How to make Lentil Soup

  1. Step 1

    If using dried lentils, soak them in water for at least 8 hours to hydrate them.

  2. Step 2

    In a pot, heat one tablespoon of oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic.

  3. Step 3

    Add the diced cooked ham, celery, carrots, lentils, bay leaf, and cover with the vegetable broth.

  4. Step 4

    Cook for about 5 minutes, then add the Worcestershire sauce, ground nutmeg, cumin, salt, parsley, and freshly ground black pepper.

  5. Step 5

    Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender, adding more water or broth if necessary.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

167.5kcal (8.38%)

Protein

12.5g (25%)

Carbs

22.5g (8.18%)

Sugars

1.3g (2.5%)

Healthy Fat

2.5g

Unhealthy Fat

1.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth.

  2. Soaking lentils overnight reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.

  3. Serve the soup with toasted bread cubes for added texture and flavor.

  4. Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more spices or herbs.

FAQS

  1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?

    Yes, you can use canned lentils. Skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time as canned lentils are already cooked.

  2. Can I freeze this lentil soup?

    Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

  3. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

    You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.

  4. How can I make this soup spicier?

    Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.

  5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

    Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender.

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