Prepare the Vegetables:
Chop the potato, carrot, and onion into small pieces.
Slice the leek.
Rinse the Lentils:
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat 1-2 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tsp of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the chopped carrot and sliced leek. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Add a pinch of cumin and stir well.
Add the chopped potato and mix thoroughly.
Cook the Lentils:
Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir well.
Pour in 1 liter (approximately 4.2 cups) of boiling water or broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings:
Stir in 1 tbsp of tomato paste and mix well.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add chopped cilantro or parsley.
Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only a part of the soup.
Finish with Lemon Juice:
Stir in lemon juice to taste (about 1 tbsp).
Add a little more olive oil if desired.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional chopped herbs if desired.
Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this red lentil soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Pair with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Cooking Tips
Rinse the Lentils: Make sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and reduce foam while cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more spices or herbs as desired.
Soup Consistency: If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
Protein and Fiber: Red lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutritious and Delicious: This soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, making it a perfect addition to a balanced diet.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian
Gluten-Free
Dairy-Free (if you omit the butter)
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Freeze: The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: This red lentil soup is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Comforting and Nutritious: It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious red lentil soup. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to write in the comments how you liked this recipe. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of lentils for this recipe?
Red lentils are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and break down easily, giving the soup a creamy texture. Other lentils, like green or brown, would require a longer cooking time and result in a different texture.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use a small amount of tomato sauce or finely chopped fresh tomatoes. Adjust the quantity to maintain the balance of flavors.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup to increase the heat according to your preference.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are tender.
What can I use instead of butter to make it dairy-free?
You can simply omit the butter or replace it with an additional tablespoon of olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, blend more of the soup to thicken it.
Can I add meat to this soup?
If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground meat to the soup for added protein.
What can I serve with this soup for a complete meal?
Serve this soup with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of rice for a complete and satisfying meal
ADVERTISEMENT
