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lentil soup recipe

Comforting Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights In

A delightful lentil soup recipe that combines hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients, perfect for cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • - Pot
  • - Instant Pot

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 1 medium Onion Chopped
  • 1 medium Potato Chopped
  • 1 medium Carrot Optional, chopped

For the Soup

  • 1 cup Red Lentils Rinsed and drained
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Olive oil or ghee recommended
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Cumin Powder Can substitute with coriander
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric Optional
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste

For the Liquid

  • 4 cups Water/Chicken Stock Vegetable or chicken stock can be used
  • 1 cube Chicken Stock Cube Optional for added flavor

Finishing Touches

  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Recommended
  • 1 cup Pita Chips Optional garnish

Instructions
 

How to Make Lentil Soup

  • Start by chopping your onions, potatoes, and optionally, carrots into small cubes.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and potatoes, cooking until soft and caramelized for about 5-7 minutes. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and black pepper.
  • Add rinsed red lentils to the pot along with water or chicken stock. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover and let the mixture simmer for 40-60 minutes on the stovetop, adjusting water and salt to taste, or cook on high pressure in the Instant Pot for 15 minutes.
  • If desired, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to a smooth consistency, or leave it chunky.
  • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning. Add more water if too thick. Serve hot with a splash of lemon juice and pita chips.

Notes

Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.
Keyword autumn recipe, comfort food, gluten-free, hearty soup, lentil soup recipe, Vegetarian