Introduction
Lentil soup is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s healthy, filling, and super comforting—perfect for cold days or when you just want something light yet satisfying. The best part? Lentil soup is easy to make and doesn’t need any fancy ingredients.
Lentils are small legumes that cook faster than beans and are full of protein and fiber. This makes them a great choice for a healthy diet. If you’ve never made lentil soup before, don’t worry. This recipe is simple enough for beginners, and by the end, you’ll have a delicious pot of soup that everyone will love.
Ingredients – Classic Lentil Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic pot of lentil soup. You can find these ingredients easily in most grocery stores.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for freshness)
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Process – Classic Lentil Soup
Follow these easy steps to make your lentil soup from scratch:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before cooking, wash the lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds the base flavor for your soup.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. The spices will release their aroma, making your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 4: Add Lentils, Broth, and Tomatoes
Pour in the washed lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together. Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup. Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like a fresh tangy taste, add lemon juice at this stage.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if you like. Serve hot with bread, crackers, or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 12 g |
| Total Fat | 3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
| Potassium | 700 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?
Yes! Red lentils cook faster (about 15–20 minutes) and give the soup a creamier texture. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Q2: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q3: Can I freeze lentil soup?
Yes. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q4: How do I make the soup thicker?
You can blend part of the soup using a hand blender or regular blender, then mix it back in for a thicker texture.
Q5: Is lentil soup vegan?
If you use vegetable broth, yes—it’s 100% vegan and plant-based.
Final Thoughts
Classic lentil soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting meal that’s healthy, budget-friendly, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a bowl of warmth and flavor that everyone will enjoy.
This soup works for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week. It’s filling without being heavy, and you can adjust the spices and vegetables to match your taste.
Next time you want something cozy, nourishing, and quick, give this classic lentil soup a try. One pot, simple steps, and a whole lot of flavor—that’s the beauty of homemade cooking!
