Easy Lentil Potato Soup

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Introduction

Easy Lentil Potato Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables, this one-pot wonder is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add potatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils and potatoes are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Variations

  1. Add a Protein Boost
    For extra heartiness, stir in cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken towards the end of the cooking process. This adds more texture and makes the soup a full, well-rounded meal.
  2. Make It Creamy
    Blend the entire soup with an immersion blender and add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a velvety texture. This variation is perfect for those who love rich, creamy soups.
  3. Spice It Up
    For a bold flavor, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the vegetables. This will give the soup a smoky or spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

  1. To add extra flavor, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika before serving.
  2. This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  3. Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Crusty Bread Pairing
    Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread or a toasted baguette for dipping. The crisp exterior and soft interior of the bread perfectly complement the hearty texture of the soup.
  2. Side Salad
    Pair the soup with a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh, tangy flavors balance the richness of the soup beautifully.
  3. Garnish Generously
    Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of plain yogurt for added creaminess and flavor.

Tips

  1. Layer the Flavors
    Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup. Take your time during this step for the best results.
  2. Season Gradually
    Add salt and pepper in small amounts as you cook and adjust the seasoning at the end. This method ensures the flavors balance perfectly without becoming overly salty.
  3. Batch Cooking for Convenience
    This soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Divide the soup into individual portions, let them cool completely, and store them in airtight containers in the freezer for up to two months.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Protein: 9g
  • Sodium: 480mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use a different type of lentil?
    Absolutely! Green, brown, or red lentils all work well in this soup. Keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and may break down more, giving the soup a creamier consistency.
  2. How do I store leftovers?
    Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
  3. Can I make this soup in advance?
    Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
  4. What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
    You can use chicken broth or water with a vegetable bouillon cube for similar results. Be sure to adjust the salt levels to taste.

Conclusion

Easy Lentil Potato Soup is the perfect recipe for a quick, nutritious, and heartwarming meal. With its simple ingredients and robust flavors, this soup is versatile enough to suit a variety of dietary preferences and can be customized easily with different add-ins or spices. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal-prep-friendly dish, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every spoonful!

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Easy Lentil Potato Soup

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

Easy Lentil Potato Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables, this one-pot wonder is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for lunch or dinner.

 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add potatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils and potatoes are tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • To add extra flavor, try incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika before serving.
  • This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lentil soup, potato soup, vegan soup, hearty soup, healthy dinner

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