Recipe

Rustic Cozy Autumn Lentil and Carrot Soup

A warm, hearty, and nourishing lentil soup packed with earthy autumn flavors from carrots, potatoes, and fragrant herbs. This rustic cozy soup is perfect for chilly days and simple weeknight dinners.

⏱ 55 min total 🥣 4 servings ⭐ Easy 🌍 American
Prep15 min
Cook40 min
Total55 min
Serves4

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir and cook for 5 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
  4. Add the rinsed green lentils, dried thyme, and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
  7. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright finish.
  8. 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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