When the weather outside turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of lentil soup to lift your spirits. These tiny, nutrient-rich legumes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of flavors and ingredients to create a deliciously hearty soup. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different lentil soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From spicy red lentils swimming in coconut milk to classic French-style soups bursting with fresh herbs, these recipes showcase the incredible diversity of lentil soup. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, old-fashioned favorite or something new and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most delicious and satisfying lentil soup recipes out there, each one packed with flavor and nutrients. From vegetarian to meat-based options, and from international inspirations to good old-fashioned comfort food, these soups are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of lentil soup!
Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with this creamy and aromatic soup, perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of red lentils, coconut milk, and spices will transport you to the tropics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic French Lentil Soup with Herbs
Savor the rich flavors of France with this comforting lentil soup, infused with aromatic herbs and simmered to perfection. This traditional recipe is a staple of French cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add lentils, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Moroccan Lentil Soup with Chickpeas and Spinach
Moroccan Lentil Soup with Chickpeas and Spinach Recipe
This hearty soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, packed with nutritious lentils, chickpeas, and spinach. Serve it with crusty bread or over couscous for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the chickpeas and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Lentil and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender lentils, crisp vegetables, and a rich creamy broth. It’s an excellent choice for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half; adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Lentil Soup with Sweet Potatoes
This comforting soup combines the creamy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of red lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic curry broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of oil until tender, about 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add lentils, broth, roasted sweet potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Lentil Soup with Bacon and Kale
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the smoky depth of bacon and the earthy freshness of kale. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to pot; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in cooked bacon and kale. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes or until greens are wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Tomato Basil Lentil Soup with Parmesan
This hearty soup combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and nutritious lentils, topped with a sprinkle of creamy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Sausage Soup with Fennel
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of sausage, lentils, and fennel, making it a perfect option for a chilly day. With its rich aroma and savory taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large fennel bulb, sliced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the carrots, celery, garlic, and fennel; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Lentil Soup with Fresh Dill
This vibrant soup combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the brightness of lemon and garlic, finished with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add lentils, broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Barley Soup with Carrots and Celery
Hearty Lentil and Barley Soup with Carrots and Celery: A flavorful and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pearled barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, barley, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Indian-Spiced Lentil Soup with Cumin and Turmeric
This comforting soup is infused with the aromatic flavors of cumin and turmeric, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With a blend of spices and tender lentils, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Soup with Thyme
This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of lentils and mushrooms with the warmth of thyme, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its comforting texture and rich aroma, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, water or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil Soup with Spinach and Goat Cheese
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, with the creaminess of goat cheese balanced by the earthiness of spinach and lentils. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Serve soup hot, topped with crumbled goat cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Pumpkin Soup with Ginger
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Lentil and Pumpkin Soup with Ginger!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. Add pumpkin, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lentil and Quinoa Soup with Cilantro
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, fiber-rich quinoa, and fresh cilantro. It’s an excellent way to warm up on a chilly day or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil Soup with Chorizo and Smoked Paprika
This hearty lentil soup combines the earthy sweetness of red lentils with the bold flavors of chorizo and smoked paprika, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup cooked chorizo, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and coriander; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Add the cooked chorizo and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Corn Soup with Lime
This vibrant soup combines the comfort of lentils with the sweetness of corn, all tied together with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Perfect for a light and nourishing meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh lime juice, for serving (about 2 tablespoons per serving)
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in sweet corn kernels and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lentil Soup with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
Warm Up with Hearty Lentil Soup
This comforting lentil soup combines the earthy flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary, perfect for a chilly evening. A blend of tender lentils, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant herbs will transport you to a cozy state.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, roasted (see notes)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic: Cut top off of each clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrot, and celery in a little oil until softened.
4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, roasted garlic, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, with lemon wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup infused with the earthy flavor of sage. This recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the roasted squash, lentils, vegetable broth, and chopped sage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lentil Soup with Zucchini and Fresh Mint
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the bright flavors of zucchini and fresh mint, perfect for a cozy evening meal or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil (if using) over medium heat until softened.
2. Add lentils, water, zucchini, mint, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the comforting world of lentils with these 20 hearty lentil soup recipes! From classic French to spicy Moroccan, creamy vegetable to smoky bacon, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, these soups are sure to warm your belly and your heart. With ingredients ranging from coconut milk to chorizo, cumin to cilantro, and herbs like thyme and rosemary, these lentil soups offer endless flavor combinations to explore.
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