Warm up your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds with a bowl of our hearty Carrot and Lentil Soup! This comforting vegetarian delight is not only packed with nutrients but is also incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 40 minutes of your time, you can create a soul-soothing dish that will leave your family asking for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to this delicious recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or small stones.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the onions, stirring quickly to prevent burning and release their aromatic flavors.
- Add chopped carrots to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften.
- Sprinkle ground cumin over the vegetables and stir to distribute the spice evenly.
- Pour the rinsed lentils into the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Add vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender and carrots are soft.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup, depending on your preferred texture.
- Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of yogurt.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils under cold water to ensure they are clean and free from any debris. This step is crucial for a smooth soup texture.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic; this step builds a flavorful base for your soup. Aim for a golden color to enhance the dish's overall taste.
- Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cumin to suit your palate. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper!
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it with an immersion blender. This gives you a mix of creamy and textured bites.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for about 5 minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each spoonful even more delicious.
- Garnish for Freshness: Elevate your soup by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of yogurt for a creamy finish that adds a burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
