Lentil Soup Recipe (Easy Version)

This red lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that's fantastic for any day and easy to make. It is the perfect anti-inflamamtory meal that is packed full of protein, fiber, vitamins, and phytonutrients.

I recommend first by starting out with this simple recipe with only these few ingredients. Then you can try adding other veggies and seasonings to get the taste you prefer.

Traditionally it is serve with toasted/fried pita chips but I would skip this step to avoid uncessary calories and carbs.

Ingredients:

Vegetables

• 1 onion, chopped

Protein:

• 1 cup dried red/orange lentils, rinsed

Flavorings:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 teaspoon of cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Liquids

• 6 cups vegetable broth (or water)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and other desired veggies and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

   
   

2. Add 1-2 cup of rinsed lentils and 5-6 cups of broth: Stir in lentils, seasonings, and tomatoes if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

   
   

3. Simmer and Serve: Stir in red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes more. Remove from heat and discard bay leaf.

   
   

4. Although not needed, when finally cooked, you can use an immersion blender to create a smooth creamy texture or just leave as is for a soft / chunky soup.

   
   

Optional ingredients to include:

Vegetables

• 2 carrots, diced (optional)

• 2 celery stalks, chopped  (optional)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced  (optional)

Seasonings

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Liquids

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (optional)

• Lemon juice

Nutrients

Here is a video showing how to make it. I will be making my own in the near future

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH8Fq7CwfR8&t=1s