Are you craving a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly easy-to-make soup that will warm your soul and impress your taste buds? Look no further than this Simple Black Lentil Soup - a vegetarian delight that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and effortless. Packed with protein, fiber, and rich, earthy flavors, this soup is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will have you coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the black lentils thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and allow it to warm up for about 30 seconds.
- Add diced onions and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add minced garlic and cumin to the pot. Stir and cook for another 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed black lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir well to distribute the seasoning.
- If desired, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to slightly crush some of the lentils to create a thicker, creamier texture.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of yogurt before serving.
Tips
- Always rinse your lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and prevent potential grittiness in your soup.
- Don't rush the sautéing process - allowing onions and carrots to develop a slight caramelization will enhance the overall depth of flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the lentils. They should be tender but still hold their shape for the best texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the cumin in the pot for 15-20 seconds before adding other ingredients to release its aromatic oils.
- If you want a creamier consistency, don't hesitate to use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially break down some of the lentils.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prep.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a dollop of yogurt to personalize your soup experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
