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–+ servings
Lentil Soup
This hearty Lentil Soup is a nourishing one-pot meal built on pantry staples and gentle spices. Likely originating from a mid-century vegetarian or health-conscious home cook, it balances warming aromatics like cumin, garlic, and onion with the comforting earthiness of lentils and root vegetables. Butter and a touch of chili powder or cayenne add depth and richness. This soup is beloved for its adaptability, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd, making it a timeless staple in American home kitchens.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American, middle eastern
Servings 8
Calories 207 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ¼ tsp chili powder ( or ⅛ tsp cayenne)
  • ½ tsp cumin seed
  • 1 tbsp safflower ( or peanut oil)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 quarts water ( or vegetable stock)
  • 2 cups dried lentils (washed)
  • 1 carrot (sliced)
  • 2 stalks celery (sliced)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 tsp salt

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

  • In a large pot, heat oil and butter over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin seed, and chili powder (or cayenne).
  • Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Main Ingredients

  • Stir in lentils, carrot, celery, bay leaf, and salt.
  • Pour in the water or vegetable stock.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  • Bring mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 2 hours, until lentils and vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Adjust and Serve

  • Taste and correct seasoning if needed.
  • Serve warm with bread or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Tips

  • Add diced tomatoes for extra acidity and depth.
  • Stir in fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes for extra nutrients.
  • Replace butter with additional oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Add smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
  • Use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock for a richer flavor.
  • Add chopped potatoes for a heartier, thicker soup.
  • Purée half the soup for a creamier texture without using cream.
  • Finish with lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
  • Stir in cooked sausage or ham if a non-vegetarian version is desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 14gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 130mgPotassium: 554mgFiber: 15gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1360IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 52mgIron: 4mg
Keyword comfort food, economical, hearty, homemade soup, lentil soup, one-pot, vegetable soup, vintage recipe, winter comfort
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