Save A hearty, comforting soup loaded with lentils, carrots, and celery—perfect for chilly days, budget-friendly, and full of flavor.
I first made this soup after a winter walk with my family, and the warmth and flavors instantly turned it into a staple in our home.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, diced
- Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and diced
- Celery: 3 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Lentils: 1 1/2 cups (300 g) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- Vegetable broth: 6 cups (1.5 L)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (400 g), with juice (optional)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6 8 minutes, until softened.
- Add garlic:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add lentils and liquids:
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (if using), bay leaf, cumin, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 35 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Finishing:
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. For creamier texture, partially puree with an immersion blender or leave chunky.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.
Save My kids love dipping crusty bread in their bowls, and it brings out great family conversation around the dinner table.
Nutritional Highlights
Each serving provides about 285 calories, 15 g protein, and is low in fat, making it a hearty choice for health-conscious eaters.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the soup with a big salad or serve with toasted bread. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for a bright finish.
Ingredient Swaps
You can add potatoes, spinach, or kale for extra variety. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley boost freshness.
Save This soup is pure comfort in a bowl—enjoy every spoonful with good company or as a cozy solo meal!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of lentils work best in this soup?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture when cooked.
- → Can I make this dish creamier?
Yes, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, creating a creamier consistency without adding dairy.
- → Which spices enhance the flavor of this dish?
Ground cumin, dried thyme, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth, complementing the vegetables and lentils.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Absolutely, flavors develop further when left overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead option.
- → What are good accompaniments to this warm dish?
Serve with fresh lemon wedges and crusty bread to enhance taste and provide a satisfying meal.