A Hearty, Flavorful, and Nutritious Delight!
This French Lentil Soup is a comforting dish that combines earthy lentils with fresh vegetables and a touch of cream for richness. Perfect as a main course or a side, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent option for any meal.
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 medium onion, diced (~150 g) (for flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds aromatic depth)
- 2 medium carrots, diced (~150 g) (sweetness and color)
- 2 medium potatoes, diced (~200 g) (adds heartiness)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (~120 g) (for crunch)
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) green or brown lentils, rinsed (the star ingredient!)
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable or chicken broth (for a flavorful base)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (for herby flavor)
- 1 bay leaf (adds depth)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your soup.
- Next, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. The aroma will be inviting!
- Add Lentils and Broth:
- Incorporate the rinsed lentils into the pot along with the vegetable or chicken broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring the lentils are evenly distributed.
- Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Blend Part of the Soup:
- For a creamy texture, carefully remove about 2 cups of the soup (including lentils and vegetables) and blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or transferring it to a regular blender. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
- Return the blended portion back to the pot, stirring it into the rest of the soup. This step adds creaminess while keeping some texture.
- Add Cream and Season:
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, allowing it to heat through for about 5 minutes on low heat. The creaminess will elevate the flavors and give the soup a luxurious feel.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Serve:
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the comforting aromas as you serve!
Additional Tips:
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after a day!
- Freezing: Consider freezing leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for additional nutrition and color. You can also spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat!
This French Lentil Soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something hearty and wholesome! Enjoy! 🍽️✨