There’s something about the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup that just makes everything feel right in the world. That’s why I’m super excited to share my recipe for Smoky Lentil Soup! This dish holds a special place in my heart because it was the first recipe I ever made on my own when I was trying to impress my college roommate. Spoiler alert: I nailed it, and we even had seconds!
I love this recipe because it marries the earthiness of lentils with a beautiful smoky flavor that makes it feel hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients! It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, and it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something cozy that’s also good for you. Let me take you through the deliciousness!
What’s in Smoky Lentil Soup?
Lentils: These little gems are the stars of the show! I prefer using green or brown lentils because they hold their shape beautifully during cooking, making the soup feel hearty. Plus, they’re chock-full of protein and fiber, which is a win-win in my book.
Smoked Paprika: This is where the magic happens! The smoked paprika gives the soup that signature smoky flavor. I love using a good quality brand like Pimentón de la Vera for an authentic touch, but any smoked paprika will do in a pinch.
Celery and Carrots: These veggies add a lovely sweetness and a bit of crunch to the soup. I’ve always believed that a good soup begins with a solid mirepoix, and these two are essential.
Onion: A must-have for the flavor base; onions are the unsung heroes of many dishes! I typically go for yellow onions, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! It adds richness and depth to the flavor profile of the soup. I use fresh garlic for the best taste, but you can also use minced garlic if you’re in a hurry.
Vegetable Broth: This is the liquid gold that brings everything together. I like to choose low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness, and it’s a great way to use homemade broth if you’ve got it!
Sun-dried tomatoes: For that bit of tangy flavor, sun-dried tomatoes bring an extra depth that’s just delightful. I often find them in jars packed in oil; those offer an even richer taste.
Is Smoky Lentil Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This Smoky Lentil Soup is packed with nutritious ingredients that deliver a hearty dose of goodness.
Lentils: As I mentioned earlier, they’re loaded with protein and fiber, which are fantastic for keeping you full and satisfied while also supporting digestive health.
Vegetable Broth: It offers hydration and a range of minerals without the calories, making it a great base for any soup.
Garlic: Besides adding flavor, garlic has health benefits like lowering blood pressure and boosting the immune system. Who doesn’t want that?!
Just keep in mind that if you’re sensitive to salt or are watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium broth.
Ingredients for Smoky Lentil Soup (Serves 4-6)
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Smoky Lentil Soup?
1. **Prepare the vegetables:** In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
2. **Add garlic and spices:** Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant—your kitchen will love this!
3. **Combine ingredients:** Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and rinsed lentils into the pot, mix well. Then pour in the vegetable broth and give it a good stir.
4. **Simmer:** Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally, and add more broth or water if it starts to get too thick.
5. **Season:** Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the spices as needed. If you want a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
6. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy it with crusty bread for an extra treat!
Soup-er Tips & Variations
This soup is incredibly versatile! You can easily mix it up by adding other veggies like kale for a nutritional boost or switch up the spices to suit your taste. If you need to raise the heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce can turn up the flavor.
Also, if you’re looking for protein-rich additions, feel free to toss in some chopped cooked sausage or shredded chicken to make it even heartier. You can freeze any leftovers in individual portions for future busy weeknight dinners!
I can’t wait for you to try this Smoky Lentil Soup! It warms my soul every time I make it, and I hope it does the same for you. After you’ve made it, please let me know how it turns out and share your tweaks! Happy cooking!