Description
This Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup is a comforting, nutritious, and budget-friendly meal. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and rich flavors, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep. Naturally vegan and easily customizable, this soup is a must-try!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Main Ingredients: Add rinsed lentils, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils and potatoes are tender.
- Season and Finish: Remove bay leaf, add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in lemon juice if using.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
- Extra Creamy Texture: Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- More Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
- Different Lentils: Green/brown hold their shape, red create a softer texture.
- Boost Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: global
Keywords: Lentil potato soup, vegan lentil soup, healthy soup recipe, easy meal prep soup, plant-based dinner