Lentil Soup Recipe: Wholesome, Hearty, and Flavorful Comfort Food

Lentil soup is a wholesome, hearty dish that's both nutritious and flavorful. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils, and a medley of vegetables and spices, this soup is a nourishing and comforting option for a cozy meal. Whether you're looking for a vegetarian option or just a healthy, satisfying dish, this lentil soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (brown, green, or red), rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
2. Add Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils, cumin, coriander, paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the lentils and vegetables with the spices.
3. Pour in the Liquids: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the soup to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Remove Bay Leaves: After the soup has simmered, remove and discard the bay leaves.
6. Optional Additions: If using, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Remove the soup from heat and add the lemon juice, stirring well.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the lentil soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

This lentil soup recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious meal, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or enjoying as a wholesome lunch or dinner option. With its rich flavors, tender lentils, and hearty vegetables, this soup is sure to become a favorite for those seeking a healthy, comforting dish. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.