Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
2. Transfer the cooked vegetables to the slow cooker.
3. Add lentils, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Temperature:
- Low or high setting on slow cooker
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 174
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of lentils you prefer.
- You can use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth.
- You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add chopped kale or spinach to the soup.
- Add cooked sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier soup.
Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the lentils before using them to remove any dirt or debris.
- You can sauté the vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge to save time in the morning.
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
Garnishes:
- Top the soup with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Serve the soup with a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Suggested side dishes:
- Crusty bread
- Side salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water.
- If the soup is too thin, let it cook for a longer time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the lentils are fully cooked before serving.
Food history:
- Lentil soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean.
Flavor profiles:
- The soup is savory and earthy, with a hint of sweetness from the vegetables.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A
Taste: Savory, Herby, Comforting, Hearty, Earthy