Pin this A hearty, nourishing soup packed with earthy lentils and fragrant herbs—perfect for cozy nights and budget-friendly meals.
This classic lentil and herb soup has been a comforting favorite in my family for years during chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Legumes: 1 cup (200 g) dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, 2 medium carrots, diced, 2 celery stalks, diced, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 medium potato, peeled and diced, 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- Liquids: 6 cups (1.5 L) vegetable broth, 2 tbsp olive oil
- Herbs & Spices: 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in lentils, diced potatoes, and tomatoes with their juice.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then add bay leaf, thyme, oregano, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Step 6:
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 7:
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot.
Pin this Enjoying this soup has brought many cozy family dinners around our kitchen table.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon, ladle
Allergen Information
Contains no common allergens. Double check broth and canned tomatoes for additives or cross contamination if you have sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Calories 280, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 46 g, Protein 13 g per serving
Pin this This soup is a comforting, nutritious option that can easily be tailored to your taste and dietary needs.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the lentils simmer?
Simmer the lentils with vegetables and herbs for 35 to 40 minutes until tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- → Can I use different types of lentils?
Brown or green lentils work best for maintaining shape and texture in the dish, offering a hearty bite.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and fresh parsley create a layered herbal profile that complements the earthy lentils.
- → How can I make the texture creamier?
Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in to create a smooth, creamy consistency without losing texture.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve hot with crusty bread or topped with grated Parmesan for added richness and texture contrast.