A hearty and nutritious lentil soup made with vegetables and aromatic spices.
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
Remove the bay leaf and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Before adding the lentils to the pot, rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities.
If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth. If it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered until the broth has reduced.
How can I make lentil soup vegan-friendly?
This lentil soup recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products. Just ensure that the vegetable broth you choose is labeled vegan, and you're all set!
What are some good substitutions for ingredients in lentil soup?
If you don't have red lentils, you can substitute them with green or brown lentils, but adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to become tender. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand; for example, zucchini or bell peppers can be great additions.
How should I store leftover lentil soup?
Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
What can I serve with lentil soup for a complete meal?
Lentil soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grain like quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese for added creaminess.
How do I know when the lentils are cooked perfectly in the soup?
The lentils are perfectly cooked when they are tender but still hold their shape. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of simmering. If they start to break apart, they may be overcooked, so keep an eye on them during the cooking process.
I'm Munachi, passionate about cooking and loves trying foreign dishes. I'm into culinary dishes and I'm also a writer and self publisher.
