Cozy Lentil Soup Recipe

Cozy Lentil Soup is a hearty and comforting dish made primarily from lentils, vegetables, and spices. It’s perfect for chilly days and is packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice for a warm, wholesome meal.

Here’s a comforting recipe for Cozy Lentil Soup that’s perfect for chilly days:

Cozy Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Soup:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Spices and Lentils:
   • Add the cumin, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), and the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
5. Add Greens (Optional):
   • If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Allow it to wilt.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add lemon juice for brightness.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy!

This Cozy Lentil Soup is not only easy to make but also nutritious and filling. Perfect as a main dish or a starter, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad!