Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bunch spiny amaranth, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
Special equipment needed:
- Large soup pot
- Immersion blender (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse lentils and soak in water for at least 2 hours.
2. In a large soup pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fragrant.
4. Drain lentils and add them to the pot along with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add chopped spiny amaranth and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (optional).
7. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 2 hours (soaking lentils)
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
- Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 16g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of lentils can be used
- Spinach or kale can be substituted for spiny amaranth
- Chicken or beef broth can be used instead of vegetable broth
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for a heartier soup
- Top with croutons or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking lentils helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup for a smoother texture
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat on the stove over low heat until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a bowl with a sprig of fresh herbs on top
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, croutons, sour cream
Pairings:
- Crusty bread, salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich, roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a longer period of time to reduce and thicken
Food safety advice:
- Make sure lentils are thoroughly cooked before consuming to avoid foodborne illness
Food history:
- Spiny amaranth is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in Mexican and Central American cuisine
Flavor profiles:
- Earthy, smoky, slightly tangy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish
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