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🍲 Quick Herbed Brown Lentil Soup | Healthy & Flavorful Comfort Food

A bowl of warm, hearty brown lentil soup, vibrant with fresh greens like spinach, parsley, coriander, and mint. The soup has a rustic, earthy texture, with soft, tender lentils floating amidst a golden broth. Chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of fresh herbs garnish the top, adding a burst of color. The soup is served in a simple white bowl with a spoon beside it, accompanied by a slice of crusty bread on the side, making for a wholesome, comforting meal.

A simple, hearty soup packed with fresh herbs, lentils, and vegetables, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown lentils (rinsed)

  • 1 onion (chopped, if you have it)

  • 2-3 cloves garlic (minced, if you have it)

  • 1 bunch parsley (chopped)

  • A handful of spinach (chopped)

  • A handful of coriander (chopped)

  • A handful of mint (chopped)

  • 1-2 spring onions (chopped)

  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil (or any oil you prefer)

  • 1 tsp cumin powder (optional, for depth of flavor)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Water or vegetable broth (about 4 cups, more for a thinner soup)

  • A squeeze of lemon (optional, for freshness)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the lentils: If the lentils aren't soaked, just rinse them under cold water. You don't need to soak brown lentils for long periods.

  2. Cook the lentils: In a large pot, add the lentils and water (or broth). Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes or until tender.

  3. Prepare the aromatics: While the lentils cook, heat the olive oil in a separate pan. Add chopped spring onions, garlic, and onion (if using) and sauté until softened and fragrant.

  4. Add herbs and greens: Once the onions are softened, toss in your chopped herbs—parsley, coriander, mint—and spinach. Stir them around and let them wilt and infuse their flavors for about 3-5 minutes.

  5. Combine: Add the sautéed mixture into the pot with the lentils. Stir well and let everything cook together for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

  6. Season and finish: Season with salt, pepper, and cumin if using. For an added pop of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice right before serving.

  7. Serve hot: Garnish with extra fresh herbs if you like and serve with crusty bread or rice.

1. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrients

  • You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor. Simply chop them and sauté along with the onions and garlic.

  • Sweet potatoes or butternut squash would also be great choices to add a touch of sweetness.

2. Boost the Protein

  • For an extra protein boost, add chickpeas or kidney beans. They pair well with the lentils and will make the soup more hearty.

3. Spices and Seasonings

  • Cumin and coriander add depth, but if you want to experiment with different flavor profiles, try adding paprika, turmeric, or even a cinnamon stick to the soup while it simmers.

  • If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some spice.

4. Creaminess

  • For a creamy version of the soup, stir in a dollop of yogurt or coconut milk just before serving. This adds richness and a smooth texture, making it even more comforting.

  • You can also blend a portion of the soup (about half) to make it a creamier consistency while still keeping some whole lentils.

5. Herb Variations

  • If you don’t have some of the herbs listed in the recipe, you can use other fresh herbs such as oregano, basil, or thyme. Each will give the soup a slightly different but delicious flavor.

  • Dried herbs like bay leaves or herbes de Provence can also work as alternatives.

6. Toppings for Added Texture

  • Top the soup with a handful of toasted seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, etc.) or croutons for added crunch.

  • A sprinkle of cheese (like parmesan or feta) can complement the flavors of the soup perfectly.

  • A swirl of olive oil or a dash of balsamic vinegar just before serving will elevate the flavor.

7. Make It a Meal

  • Serve the soup with flatbreads, naan, or a warm loaf of rustic bread for a filling meal. If you're looking for a complete meal, a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad will pair well with the soup.

8. Make it Vegan/Vegetarian

  • The soup is naturally vegan and vegetarian, but make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based dish.

9. Store and Reheat

  • This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the flavors only improve as they sit. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a large batch and store individual portions in the freezer for later.

10. Make a Spicy Version

  • For an extra kick, blend in harissa paste or Sriracha sauce to the soup. These will provide heat and complexity.

  • Adding a chopped jalapeño or serrano chili when sautéing the aromatics will infuse the soup with a nice level of heat.

11. Lentil Variation

  • If you prefer a different type of lentil, red lentils cook faster and turn soft, making the soup more like a creamy puree. Green lentils hold their shape and provide a bit more texture to the dish. Adjust cooking times as necessary.

12. Garnish Ideas

  • Add some fresh avocado slices for a creamy contrast.

  • A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds can add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor.


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