Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup for Cozy Evenings

© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©

Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup for Cozy Evenings 🥣🥔✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a warm and satisfying dish to enjoy on chilly evenings? This hearty lentil soup recipe brings together the goodness of nutritious lentils and comforting potatoes in a flavorful broth. Not only is this comforting lentil soup easy to make, but it also offers a wholesome meal filled with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this potato soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

2. Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-step instructions for making hearty lentil soup

Prepare the ingredients

Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion and carrots, and mince the garlic. Gather all ingredients so you’re ready to cook.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the lentils and potatoes

Add the rinsed lentils, diced potatoes, ground cumin (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils and potatoes are tender.

Puree or leave chunky (optional)

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, leave it chunky for a more rustic feel. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve your comforting lentil soup

Ladle the hot hearty lentil soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

4. Storage tips

This potato soup recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months—just allow to thaw before reheating. For best results, avoid freezing the soup if it contains freshly chopped potatoes, as they may become grainy upon thawing.

5. Serving suggestions

Pair this comforting lentil soup with a slice of toasted sourdough bread or garlic bread for extra indulgence. For added flavor, sprinkle some grated cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on top. This hearty soup also makes an excellent starter for larger dinners or a satisfying main course when served with a side salad.

6. Tips and substitutions

• If you prefer a richer flavor, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste during cooking.
• Vegetarian? Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based additions.
• Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist.
• Adjust spices to suit your taste—adding chili flakes for heat or smoked paprika for smoky depth.

7. Related recipes and internal links

Discover more delicious dishes like easy creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet or explore the ultimate chewy chocolate chip cookies. To add a protein boost, try our garlic parmesan chicken skewers.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Elevate your hearty lentil soup cooking experience with these fantastic kitchen tools:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for making crispy side dishes or reheating leftovers quickly and evenly, bringing convenience to your meal prep.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This versatile set ensures even heating and nonstick performance for all your cooking needs, including making soups and stews.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Great for preparing proteins or additional sides to complement your hearty lentil soup.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer — Useful for preparing bread or other baked goods to serve alongside your soup.

9. Conclusion

This hearty lentil soup is a perfect embodiment of comfort and wholesome nutrition. Easy to prepare, versatile, and immensely satisfying, it’s an ideal choice for cozy evenings and family meals. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this potato soup recipe will warm your heart and nourish your soul. Try it today and enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade, nourishing bowl of goodness!

FAQs about hearty lentil soup

Can I make this lentil soup vegan?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and ensure all seasoning and ingredients are plant-based. This comforting lentil soup is naturally vegan-friendly.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time, including prep and cooking, is about 45-50 minutes. Most of this time is simmering, which allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Are there suitable substitutions for lentils?

Absolutely. You can swap lentils for split peas or cannonball beans, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes. Feel free to include celery, zucchini, or kale for added flavor and nutrition.

What are some tips to make the soup creamier?

Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup or stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream during the final stages of cooking.

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