The hidden gem of lentil soup: cheap, nutritious, and delicious
What To Know
- Alternatively, lentil soup can be cooked in a slow cooker, allowing it to simmer over several hours, resulting in a deeply flavorful and tender soup.
- A single serving of lentil soup can provide a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake of several key nutrients.
- Whether you cook it in a pot or a slow cooker, in bulk or in smaller batches, lentil soup is a culinary gem that will delight your taste buds and your wallet.
In the realm of budget-friendly cooking, lentil soup stands as a culinary beacon, offering a tantalizing blend of nutrition and affordability. With its simple ingredients and satisfying taste, lentil soup has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. But just how cheap is lentil soup? This blog post will delve into the cost-effectiveness of this beloved dish, exploring its ingredients, preparation methods, and nutritional value.
Ingredients and Pricing
The primary ingredients in lentil soup are lentils, onions, carrots, celery, and broth. Lentils, the star of the show, are incredibly affordable, typically costing around $1 per pound. Onions, carrots, and celery are also budget-friendly vegetables, with a pound of each costing around $0.50-$1. Vegetable broth, the liquid base of the soup, can be made from scratch using vegetable scraps or purchased for around $2-$3 per carton.
Preparation Methods
Lentil soup is remarkably easy to prepare, making it a time-saver as well as a money-saver. The traditional method involves simmering the ingredients in a pot until the lentils are tender. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of lentils used. Alternatively, lentil soup can be cooked in a slow cooker, allowing it to simmer over several hours, resulting in a deeply flavorful and tender soup.
Nutritional Value
Despite its low cost, lentil soup packs a nutritional punch. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and iron. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate, potassium, and magnesium. The vegetables in the soup provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A single serving of lentil soup can provide a substantial portion of the recommended daily intake of several key nutrients.
Cost Comparison
To assess the cost-effectiveness of lentil soup, let’s compare it to other popular soup options. A typical recipe for lentil soup yields approximately 8 servings and costs around $5-$7 to make. This translates to a cost of $0.62-$0.87 per serving. In contrast, a can of commercially prepared chicken noodle soup costs around $1.50-$2, while a bowl of soup at a restaurant can range from $5-$10.
Bulk Cooking and Freezing
For even greater savings, consider cooking lentil soup in bulk. By doubling or tripling the recipe, you can freeze the leftovers for future meals. This allows you to enjoy the convenience of homemade soup without the added expense of frequent cooking.
Tips for Saving Money
Here are a few additional tips for saving money on lentil soup:
- Use dried lentils instead of canned lentils. Dried lentils are significantly cheaper and can be easily cooked at home.
- Buy vegetables in season. Seasonal vegetables are typically more affordable than out-of-season produce.
- Use vegetable scraps to make your own vegetable broth. This is a great way to reduce waste and save money.
- Cook lentil soup in a slow cooker. This method not only saves time, but it also allows the soup to develop a richer flavor.
Wrap-Up: A Wallet-Friendly and Nutritious Choice
In conclusion, lentil soup is an incredibly budget-friendly and nutritious meal option. Its affordable ingredients, easy preparation, and versatility make it a perfect choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value. Whether you cook it in a pot or a slow cooker, in bulk or in smaller batches, lentil soup is a culinary gem that will delight your taste buds and your wallet.
What People Want to Know
Q: How much does it cost to make lentil soup?
A: The cost of making lentil soup varies depending on the ingredients used and the quantity made. Generally, a typical recipe for 8 servings costs around $5-$7 to make.
Q: Is lentil soup cheaper than other soups?
A: Yes, lentil soup is typically cheaper than other popular soup options, such as chicken noodle soup or restaurant-made soups.
Q: Can I freeze lentil soup?
A: Yes, lentil soup can be frozen for future meals. It is recommended to freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
Q: How long does lentil soup last in the fridge?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, lentil soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
A: Yes, you can use canned lentils instead of dried lentils. However, dried lentils are significantly cheaper and can be easily cooked at home.
