Hearty Red Lentil Soup has become my go-to dish during chilly evenings. This comforting soup is not only packed with flavor but also brimming with nutritious vegetables and tender red lentils. The aromatic spices, including cumin and coriander, create a delightful warmth that envelops you with every spoonful. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish for meal prep, this soup fits the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Red Lentil Soup

This hearty lentil soup is a fantastic choice for a variety of reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Second, it’s a healthy red lentil soup option that is high in protein and fiber, making it perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier. Third, it’s naturally vegan, so it’s suitable for anyone following a plant-based diet. You can also make this soup spicy by adding red pepper flakes, which makes it a great spicy red lentil soup option. Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and can be reheated easily. Lastly, with its rich flavors and comforting texture, this is the best red lentil soup for winter.

Hearty Red Lentil Soup: 6 Comforting Variations to Try - Hearty Red Lentil Soup - main visual representation

Ingredients for Hearty Red Lentil Soup

Gather these items:

2 large onions, finely chopped
4 large garlic cloves, minced
6 large celery stalks, diced
5 large carrots, diced
2 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons oil, for frying
3 cups dry red lentils, rinsed
9 cups low sodium vegetable broth
14 ounces can diced tomatoes, low sodium
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped

How to Make Hearty Red Lentil Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and swirl in the oil to coat the base. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, then sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant and slightly softened.
Step 2: Add the diced celery stalks and carrots to the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop flavor.
Step 3: Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables. Cook this mixture for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to toast the spices and release their aromas.
Step 4: Pour in the rinsed red lentils, low sodium vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together well. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Step 5: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for a nourishing and flavorful meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Red Lentil Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
For a thicker consistency, cook the soup longer or blend part of it.
Consider adding more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
This soup can be easily adapted for a gluten-free red lentil soup option.
Remember that the soup can be made in a slow cooker as well, which is a fantastic option for meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Red Lentil Soup

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this soup. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavors or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a twist, consider topping it with a dollop of yogurt or coconut cream for added creaminess. This red lentil soup with vegetables makes a hearty lunch or dinner option!

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Red Lentil Soup

If you have leftovers, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply transfer it to a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It’s perfect for hearty red lentil soup for meal prep as you can batch cook and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Red Lentil Soup

What ingredients are in red lentil soup?

The ingredients include lentils, vegetables like carrots and celery, spices such as cumin and coriander, and vegetable broth. This combination makes a nutritious and filling red lentil stew.

Can I make Hearty Red Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge and can be made a few days in advance, making it a great easy hearty lentil soup recipe for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hearty Red Lentil Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you rinse the lentils before cooking and don’t skip sautéing the vegetables to enhance the soup’s flavor. This will help you create a flavorful comforting lentil soup recipe.

Variations of Hearty Red Lentil Soup You Can Try

There are numerous ways to change up this recipe. You can add spices like turmeric for an extra health boost or include different vegetables for various textures. For a creamier version, blend part of the soup and return it to the pot. You might also consider a slow cooker red lentil soup recipe for a hands-off method. These wholesome red lentil soup variations can cater to different tastes and dietary needs!

For more information on the health benefits of lentils, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious side, try pairing this soup with chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat.

Additionally, if you’re looking for more soup recipes, visit our last recipes page for inspiration!