Lentil soup is a classic comfort food that is both delicious and budget-friendly. This hearty soup is made with lentils, a type of legume that is packed with protein, fibre, and other essential nutrients. Lentils are also incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and stews to burgers and dips. Lentil soup is a great way to use pantry staples and make a nutritious meal to feed the family. With its warm and comforting flavours, lentil soup is perfect for a cosy night in or a comforting meal after a long day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the lentils in a strainer under running water.
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil over medium heat until soft.
- Add the carrots and celery and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add the lentils, chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If you prefer a smoother texture. Blending the soup can help to thicken it and create a creamier consistency.
Serve your soup with some crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, for a satisfying and filling meal.
Add Chillies for Extra Heat
If you like a bit of heat in your lentil soup, adding some chilli peppers can be a great way to add some extra flavour and spice. You can add chopped fresh chilli peppers or dried chilli flakes to the soup while it’s cooking, or you can simply add them to individual bowls as a garnish.
Keep in mind that different types of chilli peppers have varying levels of heat, so adjust the amount according to your personal preference. Start with a small amount and taste the soup as you go along to ensure that it doesn’t become too spicy for your liking.
Cheap and Nutritious
This recipe is great for several reasons. Lentils are a cheap and nutritious source of protein and fibre, and this recipe makes use of simple ingredients that are easy to find in any supermarket. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for leftovers. By making this soup at home instead of buying canned soup, you’ll save money and have a healthier meal.
Lentil soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, so it’s a great option for meal prep or for making a large batch to have on hand for future meals.
To freeze the soup, make sure it has cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bag. Label the container with the date and contents so you can easily identify it later.
When you’re ready to eat the frozen lentil soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight or place the container in a bowl of cold water to defrost more quickly. Once thawed, you can reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s hot and bubbly.
Just keep in mind that the texture of the lentils may change slightly after being frozen, so the soup may be a bit thicker than when it was first made.
