I can't remember the first time I tried lentils, but I DO know that it was love at first bite....
Red, green, brown, French...I love them all! They all have a unique taste and texture, and I have a favorite recipe for each type. This is my favorite way to eat the French lentils....
French lentils are the heartiest of the bunch. They maintain their shape well with heat, and they give soup a nice 'bite'. Also known for their iron and protein content, lentils make a fantastic and filling meal.
I love making a big pot for dinner and having the leftovers for lunch the next few days. My picky daughters and meat-adoring hubby all adore this soup, and I hope you will too!
Perfect Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 2 T. butter coconut oil, or olive oil
- 1 c. yellow onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves about 1 T., minced
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- ¾ c. lentils French, green, or brown all work
- ½ t. cumin
- ½ t. dried thyme
- 6 c. water
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 T. tomato paste
- ¾ t. sea salt plus more to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 3 T. fresh parsley chopped
- 2 t. red wine or apple cider vinegar
- freshly grated parmesan optional, for serving
Instructions
- Heat the butter or oil in a large pot.
- Add the onion and saute for about 5 minutes.
- Add the carrot and celery, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, and cook for 30 seconds, just to bring out the flavor.
- Stir in the lentils and spices.
- Add the water, tomato paste, salt, and bay leaf.
- Stir everything, and bring it all to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, and let the soup cook for about 45-60 minutes (uncovered), until lentils are tender, but not mushy.
- Stir in the parsley and vinegar.
- Serve with freshly grated parmesan, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Adapted from this recipe
I'm estimating that this makes about 8 bowls (not cups), but that's a bit subjective to each eater.
Low in fat...calories...sugar...Weight Watchers points...this is a great meal to add to your recipe box. 🙂
What's your favorite soup?
As a kid, I loved Campbell's Chicken Noodle, but these days I'm digging lentil, bean, and minestrone soups.
Shared with: Healthy Vegan Friday
Vana
Yummy, my family had it with Feta Cheese crumbled on top, instead of the parmesan. My husband added a lot more red wine vinegar. Glad to say my two fussy eaters (husband and san), enjoyed it!
Jenleigh
Reading where it says "red wine or apple cider vinegar"...is that red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, or just red wine?
Lauren
Red wine vinegar 🙂
Jenleigh
Reading wher it says "red wine or apple cider vinegar"...is that intended to mean "red wine vinegar" or just red wine?
Jennifer
So tasty!! Whole family loved it 🙂 Thank you!
Lauren
I'm so happy you enjoyed it! 😀
Kate
Would you be able to substitute in other kids of lentils? I'm just getting started with lentils and I'm looking to use what I already have on hand!
Lauren
Sure! The french are the ones most capable of maintaining their shape, so be aware that others may become a bit mushy. I wouldn't advise the red ones for that reason. Keep an eye on them, as you may not need the entire 50 minutes for cooking. 🙂
Rachel (Teacher-Chef)
I just bought bowls like these for myself - I thought they were so corny and adorable that I needed to have!!
Lauren
Haha, I know! I bought mine from the dollar store, and they've served me well in pictures. 🙂
Gabby @ the veggie nook
Sounds delicious! Nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup 🙂 Thanks for sharing on HVF!