Craving comfort? learn how to make a warm and cozy lentil soup with potatoes
What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a flavorful and satisfying lentil soup with potatoes that will warm you from the inside out.
- For a creamier soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes before adding them to the soup.
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Are you craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s packed with nutrients? Look no further than lentil soup with potatoes! This classic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a flavorful and satisfying lentil soup with potatoes that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried brown lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Rinse the lentils: Begin by rinsing the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris or dirt.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
4. Add the lentils and liquids: Pour the rinsed lentils into the pot and stir to combine. Add the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add the potatoes: Once the lentils have simmered for 20 minutes, add the diced potatoes. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
6. Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
7. Stir in the cilantro: Finally, remove the soup from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips
- For a creamier soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes before adding them to the soup.
- Add other vegetables to your soup, such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- To make the soup ahead of time, cook it as directed and then let it cool completely. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat until warmed through.
- Serve the lentil soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Variations
- Spicy lentil soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a little kick.
- Smoky lentil soup: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the soup for a smoky flavor.
- Mediterranean lentil soup: Add diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the soup for a Mediterranean twist.
- Vegan lentil soup: Omit the butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegan.
Benefits of Lentil Soup with Potatoes
- Rich in fiber: Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- High in protein: Lentils are also a good source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
- Packed with nutrients: Lentil soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and folate.
- Helps reduce cholesterol: The soluble fiber in lentils helps lower cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
- Aids in digestion: The fiber in lentils helps promote regular bowel movements, supporting digestive health.
How to Make Lentil Soup with Potatoes in an Instant Pot
If you have an Instant Pot, you can make lentil soup even faster! Follow these steps:
1. Rinse the lentils and add them to the Instant Pot.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and water.
3. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to the “Soup” setting.
4. Cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
6. Add the diced potatoes and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the cilantro and serve.
Final Note
Making lentil soup with potatoes is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. With its hearty texture and flavorful broth, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, give this lentil soup recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use other types of lentils in this soup?
A: Yes, you can use any type of lentils you like. However, brown lentils and green lentils are the most commonly used in lentil soup.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook lentil soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How can I store lentil soup?
A: Lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze lentil soup for up to 3 months.
