Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup organic green lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (optional).
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer over low heat.
Serving size:
Makes 4-6 servings.
Nutritional information:
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: 215
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 15g
Protein: 13g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use brown or red lentils instead of green lentils.
- You can use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth.
- You can add other vegetables such as potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Variations:
- Add a can of diced tomatoes for a tomato-based lentil soup.
- Add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier soup.
- Add a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for a creamy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak the lentils overnight for a quicker cooking time.
- Add more broth or water if the soup is too thick.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in a bowl with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Croutons
- Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water.
- If the lentils are not tender enough, cook for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to rinse the lentils before cooking.
- Store the soup in the refrigerator or freezer promptly.
Food history:
- Lentil soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.
Flavor profiles:
- Earthy
- Savory
- Warm
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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