Vegetable Lentil Soup is a warm, hearty dish made with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s simple to make and perfect for a cozy meal any day.
I like to add a splash of lemon or a sprinkle of herbs at the end. It makes the soup brighter and even more comforting!
A quick tip: serve with crusty bread for extra taste, or pack leftovers for a healthy lunch the next day.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Green or Brown Lentils: These lentils give the soup its hearty texture. I recommend green or brown because they hold shape well. For a quicker cook, try red lentils—just note they become softer. Rinse before adding to remove any grit.
Carrots: Sweet and tender, carrots add natural flavor. I like slicing them thin so they cook faster, but chopped chunks work too. If you don’t have carrots, parsnips are a good substitute for a similar sweetness.
Onion & Garlic: These build the base flavor. Sautéing vegetables first releases their aroma and sweetness. If you’re short on fresh garlic, a dash of garlic powder works; use less since it’s more concentrated.
Vegetable Stock or Water: Stock boosts flavor, but water works in a pinch. I prefer low-sodium stock so I can control salt. If you’re avoiding salt, use water and add a splash of soy sauce or herbs for depth.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Thyme): These enhance flavor. Thyme adds a classic note, but you can swap with rosemary or oregano if you prefer. Taste as you go—season gradually to suit your preference.
How do I avoid burning the bottom of the soup?
To prevent burning, never leave the soup unattended during simmering. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute heat evenly. Stir the soup gently every 10-15 minutes, especially as it thickens, to keep ingredients from sticking or burning.
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
Legumes
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 45 minutes. Total: approximately 55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. Sauté the vegetables
Heat some oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and spices
Stir in minced garlic and cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in broth and lentils
Add vegetable broth and rinsed lentils. Bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Simmer the soup
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes. Lentils should be tender.
6. Season and serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot. Enjoy your hearty vegetable lentil soup!