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Lentils are small, lens-shaped legumes that come in various colors and sizes, each with its unique flavor and texture. They are recognized not only for their versatility in cooking but also for their impressive nutritional profile. Rich in protein, lentils provide an excellent meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans. Just one cup of cooked lentils offers around 18 grams of protein, making them an excellent source of this essential macronutrient.

Creamy Garlic Lentil Soup

Indulge in the comforting richness of Creamy Garlic Lentil Soup, a wholesome bowl of goodness that warms both heart and soul. This delightful vegan recipe elevates traditional lentil soup with a velvety texture and robust garlic flavor, making it perfect for chilly evenings or sharing with friends. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, lentils shine as a nutritious addition to your diet. Discover how to create this nourishing dish with easy preparation steps and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for meal prep or a fulfilling dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients
  

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed and drained

1 large onion, finely diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

6 cups vegetable broth (or water if preferred)

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to become tender and fragrant.

    Add the Lentils and Spices: Once your vegetables are softened, add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the spices to release their aromas.

      Pour in the Broth: Carefully add the vegetable broth to the pot, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.

        Blend the Soup: After the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until creamy, while still leaving some whole lentils for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend the soup in batches using a countertop blender—just be cautious with hot liquids.

          Add Coconut Milk and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the creamy coconut milk, and season the soup to taste with salt, black pepper, and the fresh lemon juice. Let the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes, which will meld all the flavors nicely.

            Serve: Ladle the rich soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a refreshing side salad for a complete meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings