Prep15 min
Cook40 min
Total55 min
Serves4
Ingredients
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Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for 5 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Add the rinsed green lentils, dried thyme, and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Chef tips
- If you prefer a creamier texture, blend half of the soup with an immersion blender and then stir it back in.
- Use brown or green lentils for best texture as red lentils tend to break down completely.
- For extra depth, sauté a small diced celery stalk along with onions if available.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pros
- Quick and easy preparation with common pantry ingredients.
- High in plant-based protein and fiber from lentils.
- Comforting and filling, ideal for cooler weather.
Cons / watch-outs
- Soup thickens upon standing; may require stirring in water or broth before reheating.
- Not suitable for people with lentil or legume allergies.
Diet & nutrition notes
Diet notes: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly. It is gluten-free if you use gluten-free vegetable broth. Packed with fiber and protein, it supports a balanced plant-based diet.
Nutrition note: Per serving, this soup provides approximately 250 calories, 12g protein, 8g fiber, 35g complex carbohydrates, 5g fat (mostly healthy fats from olive oil), and is rich in vitamins A and C from carrots and potassium from potatoes.
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