How to Make French Red Lentil Soup
French red lentil soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for both chilly evenings and quick weeknight meals. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavors, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Follow these steps to make your own delightful French red lentil soup.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup French red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Spices and Lentils
Next, stir in the cumin and smoked paprika, letting the spices cook for about 30 seconds. This helps release their aromatic flavors. Then, add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, mixing everything well.
Step 3: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the lentils are soft, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more broth if desired. For a creamier texture, you may choose to use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This French red lentil soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Health Benefits of Red Lentils
French red lentils are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are an excellent source of protein, making them a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, red lentils are high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and folate, contributing to overall health.
Enjoy your homemade French red lentil soup, a dish that combines simplicity with delightful flavors and impressive nutrition!