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Lentil Soup

A warmly spiced Mediterranean lentil soup simmered with tomatoes, carrots, and cumin until thick and nourishing. Finished with a squeeze of lemon, it's deeply satisfying and naturally vegan.

60 minEasyServes 6290 cal/serving

MediterraneanSoupStovetopVeganHigh FiberGluten-FreeDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeSoy-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried red lentils, rinsed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can canned diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced yellow onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook 1 minute. Add 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp ground turmeric and toast, stirring, for 30 seconds.

  3. 3

    Add 2 cups rinsed dried red lentils, 1 can canned diced tomatoes, 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a boil.

  4. 4

    Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer until lentils are completely soft and soup has thickened, about 30 to 35 minutes.

  5. 5

    Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some whole lentils.

  6. 6

    Stir in 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning.

  7. 7

    Ladle into bowls and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.

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Questions

How much time should I plan for Lentil Soup?

As written, 60 minutes: 15 of prep and 45 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 4 (35 minutes): "Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer until lentils are completely soft and soup has thickened, about 30 to 35 minutes."

Do I need any special equipment for Lentil Soup?

Beyond a knife and a board, the method uses an immersion blender (step 5) and a blender (step 5). If you do not have one, a countertop blender, filled halfway with the lid vented, replaces the immersion blender.

What can I use instead of smoked paprika in Lentil Soup?

The entry for Lentil Soup calls for 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. In its place: Sweet paprika with a small pinch of cumin, or a few drops of liquid smoke. Chipotle powder works if you want heat as well.

How many calories are in Lentil Soup?

One serving (the recipe makes 6) is about 290 calories, with 18 g protein, 40 g carbohydrate and 6 g fat, plus 7 g fiber and 920 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

Can I make Lentil Soup ahead?

Yes, it takes well to being made ahead. Refrigerate Lentil Soup for up to four days, or freeze it in portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to loosen it.

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