Red lentil soup
Red lentil soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made with sautéed vegetables and lentils, simmered to create a comforting meal. Enhanced with lemon juice, it's both flavourful and easy to prepare.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil1 carrot
2 stalks celery
1 onion
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup lentils
4 cups water
3 tsp lemon juice
Red lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that's perfect for cold days or when you need a wholesome meal. Packed with fiber and protein, this soup is not only filling but also quick and easy to prepare. Using simple ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, and lentils, you can create a flavorful and comforting soup in no time.
Instructions:
- Chop the carrot, celery, and onion into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- In a large pot, heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped carrot, celery, and onion.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the rinsed and drained red lentils to the pot.
- Pour in the 4 cups of water.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add the 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pot and stir.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
- Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.
- Stir in the 3 teaspoons of lemon juice.
- Taste the soup, and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or lemon juice to your preference.
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious and nutritious red lentil soup!
This red lentil soup is not just delicious but also highly nutritious. It's a perfect meal for any time of the day, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy the warmth and the health benefits of this delightful soup!
Red lentil soup FAQ:
The soup should simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the lentils to become soft and fully cooked.
Red lentils are done when they are soft and have broken down. They should not have a crunchy texture. If they still seem firm after 25 minutes, simmer a few more minutes and check again.
Yes, you can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
If you don't have red lentils, you can use yellow lentils or split peas as a substitute, though cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly until they are tender.
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable or chicken broth for the water.
- Add some minced garlic or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
- Season the soup with additional spices such as cumin, coriander, or paprika for a more complex flavor profile.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving to add freshness and a pop of color.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 90kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 3.93g
Sugar 3.21g
Fat 3.75g
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