Name: Tomato Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

Tomato lentil soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, bubbling with hearty goodness and vibrant flavors. Imagine the comforting aroma of tomatoes mingling with earthy lentils and fragrant spices wafting through your kitchen, making even the grumpiest cat perk up in anticipation. This soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something that nourishes both body and soul.

Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re cozied up on the couch with a blanket, ready to dive into a bowl of this deliciousness while binge-watching your favorite show. Tomato lentil soup is not just food; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your heart and fills your belly with joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This tomato lentil soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep
With its rich, savory flavor profile, it warms you up from the inside out
The vibrant colors create visual delight in every bowl
It’s versatile enough to pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal

I remember one time I made this tomato lentil soup for my friends during a game night. Let me tell you, their faces lit up with delight as they took that first spoonful! It was such a hit that I’m pretty sure they’ve been plotting ways to get me to make it again ever since.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Red Lentils: These little gems cook quickly and break down beautifully, creating that creamy texture we all love in soups.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole or diced tomatoes; they add rich flavor and sweetness without any hassle.
Carrots: A touch of sweetness comes from diced carrots; plus, they add color and nutrition.
Onion: A must-have for depth of flavor; sauté until translucent to unlock their natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic goodness that no one can resist; use plenty for maximum flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while boosting flavor; homemade is ideal but store-bought works wonders too.
Cumin and Coriander: These spices bring warmth and earthiness; adjust according to your spice tolerance level.
Olive Oil: A dash of good quality olive oil enhances richness while sautéing your veggies.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Vegetables: Start by dicing the onion, carrots, and mincing the garlic. Allow your kitchen to fill with enticing aromas as you chop away. The more colorful your vegetables are, the more inviting your soup will be!

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions first; cook until soft and translucent—about 5 minutes—then toss in the carrots and garlic until fragrant, about another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in those luscious canned tomatoes along with their juices! Sprinkle cumin and coriander over everything like magic dust—this is where the flavors begin to dance together.

Add Lentils and Broth: Stir in red lentils next; these will be our stars! Pour vegetable broth into the pot until everything is submerged happily. Bring it all to a boil before lowering heat so it simmers gently.

Simmer Away!: Let your creation bubble away for about 25 minutes until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally while admiring how this beautiful concoction transforms into something special right before your eyes.

Blend (Optional): For an ultra-creamy texture, use an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer batches carefully to a blender if you prefer velvety smoothness. Just remember: hot liquids + blenders = potential chaos (and burns), so proceed carefully!

And voilà! You have created a delectable tomato lentil soup that warms hearts as much as it fills bellies.

Now grab yourself a comfy chair, pour yourself another cup of tea (or wine if you’re feeling fancy), and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish!

You Must Know

Tomato lentil soup is not just a warm hug in a bowl; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition
The combination of tomatoes and lentils creates a delightful texture and flavor that warms the soul on chilly days
Plus, it’s easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your tomatoes and lentils for the best flavor infusion. Follow this with vegetable broth and seasoning, letting it simmer gently for maximum taste.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative! Swap out lentils for beans or toss in some greens like spinach or kale. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a delightful twist that will surprise your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tomato lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, do so on the stove over medium heat to preserve its delicious texture and flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Achieving the perfect tomato lentil soup starts with quality ingredients; use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor
Don’t skip simmering time; allowing flavors to meld is essential
Lastly, blend part of the soup if you prefer a creamier texture without adding cream

Sometimes I still remember the first time I made this soup; my friends thought I was a professional chef, but really, it was just my secret weapon for cozy gatherings.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of lentils should I use for tomato lentil soup?

Red or green lentils work best in this recipe. Red lentils cook faster and break down into a creamy texture, while green lentils maintain their shape and provide a hearty bite.

Can I freeze tomato lentil soup?

Absolutely! Tomato lentil soup freezes well for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers for best results.

How can I enhance the flavor of my tomato lentil soup?

Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end can brighten up your dish significantly. A splash of lemon juice right before serving adds a wonderful zing that elevates all flavors beautifully.