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Wrap yourself in warmth and comfort with a steaming bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup. Filled with wholesome lentils, a medley of vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is not only a comforting option but also a budget-friendly choice for a satisfying lunch. Join us in exploring a simple yet hearty recipe that brings together nutritious ingredients in a bowl of goodness that warms both the body and the soul.

Looking for more Vegetarian Family Meals on a Budget? Check out my masterlist here.

Recipe: Hearty Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Lentils and Spices:
   • Stir in the dried lentils, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Pour in Broth:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juice. Drop in the bay leaf.
4. Bring to a Boil:
   • Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season and Adjust:
   • Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve Warm:
   • Ladle the Hearty Lentil Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
7. Optional Lemon Squeeze:
   • For a burst of freshness, serve the soup with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the soup before eating adds a delightful zing.

Hearty Lentil Soup is not just a lunch; it’s a bowl of comforting warmth that combines the richness of lentils with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. This budget-friendly recipe proves that simple, nutritious ingredients can create a satisfying and soul-soothing meal. So, savor the hearty goodness, relish the flavors, and embrace the comfort that comes with each spoonful. It’s a straightforward and delicious creation that adds a touch of homey warmth to your lunchtime routine.