How to Make the Perfect Classic Lentil Soup
Mediterranean · Easy · 45 min · 4 servings
A hearty and nourishing soup packed with red lentils, vegetables, and warm spices. This simple one-pot meal is filling, affordable, and full of plant-based protein.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Lentil Soup recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 16g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 10 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups red lentils rinsed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and carrots and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Add spices
Stir in the cumin and smoked paprika and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. This step builds a deep flavor base for the soup.
Step 3: Add lentils and liquid
Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer until lentils are tender
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes until lentils are completely soft and starting to fall apart. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Season and serve
Add salt and taste for seasoning. For a creamier texture blend half the soup using an immersion blender. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- red lentils → green or brown lentils with 10 extra minutes of cooking
- vegetable broth → chicken broth or water with extra seasoning
- olive oil → coconut oil or any neutral cooking oil
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Do not skip rinsing the lentils as they can carry dust and debris
- Do not boil the soup on high heat the entire time as it causes lentils to break down unevenly
- Do not add salt too early as it can slow the softening of lentils
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 16g protein, 42g carbs, 6g fat, 14g fiber.
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