Lentil soup is a comforting, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy lentil soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, lentils are a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious soup with minimal ingredients and effort.

Why Lentil Soup?

Nutritional Benefits

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They are also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Additionally, lentils contain essential nutrients like iron, folate, and magnesium, which contribute to overall health and well-being.

Budget-Friendly

One of the biggest advantages of lentil soup is its cost-effectiveness. Lentils are inexpensive and have a long shelf life, making them a great pantry staple. This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re not an experienced cook, this lentil soup recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this cheap and easy lentil soup:

• 1 cup dried lentils (any variety will work)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Add the cumin, paprika, and dried thyme to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices. This step enhances the flavor of your soup by allowing the spices to bloom.

Step 4: Add the Lentils and Liquid

Rinse the dried lentils under cold water and add them to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth or water and stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Allow the soup to simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and check the consistency. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Tomatoes

Once the lentils are cooked, add the can of diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step adds a burst of flavor and a lovely texture to the soup.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, it’s always better to start with a small amount of salt and adjust as you go. You can also add more spices if you prefer a more robust flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Your cheap and easy lentil soup is now ready to be served! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Tips for Customizing Your Lentil Soup

Add More Vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to your lentil soup for extra nutrition and flavor. Potatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini are great options to consider. Simply chop them and add them to the pot along with the other vegetables.

Use Different Spices

Experimenting with different spices can give your lentil soup a unique twist. Try adding curry powder for an Indian-inspired flavor or smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. The possibilities are endless!

Incorporate Protein

If you want to make your soup even more filling, consider adding additional protein sources. Cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu are excellent choices that can be added during the simmering process.

Make It Creamy

For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Blend about one-third of the soup and then mix it back into the pot. This will give your soup a rich and creamy consistency without adding any dairy.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Lentil soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and place it in the fridge.

Freezing for Later

If you want to make a big batch and freeze some for later, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Lentil soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your lentil soup, simply place it in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Final Thoughts

Lentil soup is a versatile, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal that can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences. With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process, this cheap and easy lentil soup is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. So next time you’re looking for a hearty and healthy meal, give this lentil soup recipe a try. Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!