Hearty vegan lentil soup packed with vegetables and protein. Moreover, it’s healthy, comforting, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4–6)
- 1 cup dried lentils (red or brown), rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
🔪 Preparing the Ingredients
First, rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
Then, chop all vegetables evenly so they cook at the same time.
Next, keep spices measured and ready for smooth cooking.
🍳 How to Make Vegan Lentil Soup
To begin, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Then, sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Afterward, add garlic, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add lentils, vegetable broth, and crushed tomatoes.
Then, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Finally, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Garnish and serve warm.
⭐ Tips for the Best Lentil Soup
- Firstly, use red lentils for a creamier texture.
- Additionally, simmer gently to avoid mushy lentils.
- Moreover, blend half the soup for extra thickness.
- Finally, add lemon juice at the end for brightness.
🔄 Variations to Try
- Creamy Version: Stir in coconut milk
- Spicy Soup: Add chili flakes or cayenne
- Mediterranean Style: Add spinach and oregano
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans
- Low-Sodium: Use homemade or low-salt broth
💚 Health Benefits
Lentils are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, therefore supporting energy and digestion.
Moreover, vegetables add antioxidants and vitamins.
Because this soup is vegan and low in fat, it supports heart health.
As a result, it’s both comforting and nourishing.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
- Reduce spices and skip turmeric
- Blend the soup fully for a smooth texture
- Add small pasta or rice for fun bites
- Serve with toast or crackers on the side
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 11 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
