Vegan Lentil Soup Recipe – Must Try!

Vegan lentil soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any season. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, this soup is not only healthy but also hearty and satisfying. Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe to make vegan lentil soup at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Rinse and drain the lentils.
   • Dice the onion, carrots, and celery.
   • Mince the garlic.
   • Chop the spinach or kale.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Spices:
   • Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Add Lentils and Tomatoes:
   • Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine.
   • Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (including the liquid).
5. Add Broth and Simmer:
   • Add the vegetable broth or water to the pot.
   • Add the bay leaf.
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Add Greens:
   • Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
7. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf.
   • Add salt to taste and stir in the lemon juice if using.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as diced potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added for extra flavor.
• Protein Boost: Add a can of chickpeas or white beans for added protein.

Enjoy this comforting and nutritious vegan lentil soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!