When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup to cozy up with. Making a delicious and comforting soup doesn’t have to take hours in the kitchen. With the right ingredients and some smart cooking techniques, you can whip up a hearty soup in just 30 minutes. In this article, we’re sharing a delightful recipe that’s part of our collection of 30 cozy homemade soup recipes you can make in 30 minutes. This recipe for “Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup” is packed with flavor, nutrients, and is the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day.
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine and let the spices toast for about a minute to release their flavors.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, including their juices, into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Ladle the hearty lentil and vegetable soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
This Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is not only delicious and easy to make, but it’s also a nutritious option to keep you feeling full and satisfied. The combination of protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week. Plus, you can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or switching up the vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
Prepare this soup in a big batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick and convenient meal throughout the week. It also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or stocking up your freezer for busy days. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or a simple dish to share with friends and family, this Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade soup with this quick and flavorful recipe.
