This vegetarian lentil soup is a hearty and healthy dish made with tender lentils, vegetables, and spices. It’s simple to make and perfect for a warm, filling meal any day.
I like to add a squeeze of lemon for a little extra brightness. Sometimes I sneak in a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle kick!
If you want, serve it with crusty bread or a side salad. It’s easy to make ahead and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Lentils: These cook quickly and thicken the soup nicely. I recommend rinsing them well before cooking to remove dirt. If you don’t have red lentils, yellow split peas work well, but they may take a bit longer to soften.
Carrots: They add natural sweetness and color. Fresh carrots are best, but frozen diced carrots can be a good shortcut. If you’re in a pinch, a splash of carrot juice can boost the flavor.
Onion: Provides a flavorful base. Yellow or white onions work perfectly. For a milder taste, try shallots; for a sharper flavor, red onions can be used. Use onion powder if fresh isn’t available.
Garlic: Adds depth and aroma. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute—use about half as much. I love mounding on extra garlic for a richer taste.
Vegetable Broth: The liquid base gives the soup body. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works well. For richness, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
How do I make sure the lentils cook evenly without turning mushy?
Start with rinsed lentils in boiling broth to prevent sticking. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer—boiling too hard can break them down. Stir occasionally, and check doneness after 15-20 minutes. They should be tender but not falling apart.
How to Make Vegetarian Lentil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 30 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables
Heat a large pot. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add spices and lentils
Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add rinsed lentils to the pot. Mix well to coat the lentils with spices.
3. Pour in broth and simmer
Pour in vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Final touches
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For a thicker soup, you can mash some lentils. Serve hot with bread or herbs if desired.
