Craving a soul-warming, protein-packed meal that'll transport your taste buds straight to Mexico without compromising your plant-based lifestyle? Look no further! This Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup is not just another recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines hearty lentils, vibrant spices, and crispy tortilla strips into a bowl of pure, mouthwatering magic. Whether you're a seasoned vegan, a curious foodie, or someone looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe promises to revolutionize your dinner game.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla strips for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or dust, then set aside.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty vegan lentil tortilla soup.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils Thoroughly: Always wash lentils before cooking to remove any dust or small debris that could affect the soup's texture and taste.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing onions and garlic. This builds a deep, rich flavor foundation for your soup.
- Spice Adjustment: Feel free to customize the spice level. Add more chili powder for heat or a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Prevent Mushy Lentils: Keep an eye on cooking time. Lentils should be tender but still hold their shape—about 25-30 minutes of simmering.
- Tortilla Strip Hack: For extra crispy strips, lightly brush corn tortillas with oil and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes before cutting into strips.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for meal prep.
- Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even some sliced avocado for added richness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
