Tomato lentil soup is a classic comfort dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. This wholesome soup is packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter warmer or a light summer dish, this tomato lentil soup is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Method:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set them aside.
- Finely chop the onion, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. These vegetables will form the base of your soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Add the canned tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices.
- Cook the Lentils:
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Drop in the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
- Final Touches:
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a bit of acidity, squeeze in the juice of one lemon.
- For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency, or leave it chunky if you prefer more texture.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Add extra veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for more variety.
- Make it spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the other vegetables.
- Store leftovers: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tomato lentil soup is a versatile, hearty dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious soup and nourish your body with every bite!