Vegetable Lentil Soup is a warm, hearty dish made with soft lentils, colorful vegetables, and simple spices. It’s healthy, filling, and perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
I like how easy it is to make. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon for bright flavor—my secret trick for even better soup!
If you want, top with some fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce. It’s a simple way to make this soup taste even better!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Red lentils: These cook quickly and make the soup hearty. Rinse before cooking to remove debris. If you don’t have red lentils, yellow split peas work well, but they take a bit longer to soften.
Carrots and celery: These add natural sweetness and crunch. Chop them into small pieces for even cooking. You can swap them with bell peppers or parsnips for variety, but keep the pieces similar in size.
Onion and garlic: Fundamental flavor builders. Dice the onion small so it cooks down nicely. If you don’t have garlic, garlic powder is fine—use half the amount to avoid overpowering.
Vegetable broth: This provides a flavorful base. Use store-bought or homemade broth. For a richer taste, add a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of tomato paste.
How do I chop vegetables evenly?
Start with a sharp knife and a stable cutting board. Cut your vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Slice a little at a time, keeping your fingers curled under the hand holding the piece for safety. Practice makes perfect!
How to Make Vegetable Lentil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Legumes & Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare: 10 minutes. Cook: 45 minutes. Total: 55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.
2. Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in garlic and cumin. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth and lentils
Add vegetable broth and lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer the soup
Cover and cook for 30-35 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender.
5. Season and serve
Stir in salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot. Enjoy!
