Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? This Lentil Sweet Potato Soup is not just a meal—it's a hearty, nutritious adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body! Imagine a rich, velvety soup packed with protein-dense lentils, creamy sweet potatoes, and a symphony of aromatic spices that will transport you to comfort food heaven in just 40 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 large sweet potato, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by rinsing lentils thoroughly, dicing sweet potato into 1/2-inch cubes, finely chopping onion, dicing carrots, and mincing garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Introduce diced carrots and sweet potato to the pot, stirring to combine with onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes to begin softening vegetables.
- Sprinkle cumin over the vegetables and stir to distribute the spice evenly, allowing it to toast briefly and enhance its flavor profile.
- Pour in rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the soup for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sweet potatoes are soft but not mushy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, use a potato masher to slightly crush some of the sweet potatoes for a thicker consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and reduce potential digestive discomfort.
- Toast the cumin briefly to enhance its deep, warm flavor profile before adding other ingredients.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Don't overcook the sweet potatoes—aim for tender but not mushy texture.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
- This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
