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Lentils are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. They are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, packed with protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their health. A single cup of cooked lentils contains approximately 18 grams of protein and 16 grams of fiber, contributing to satiety and digestive health.

Hearty Lentil and Potato Soup

As the chill of winter sets in, warm up with the comforting flavors of Luscious Lentil & Potato Warm-Up soup. This delightful recipe combines nutritious lentils and hearty potatoes to create a nourishing dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Discover the health benefits of these wholesome ingredients and learn how easy it is to prepare this warming soup. With simple steps and delicious spices, you'll have a satisfying meal to savor throughout the season.

Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 medium carrots, diced

2 stalks of celery, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups vegetable broth (or water if preferred)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 bay leaf

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or freshly chopped)

Fresh parsley or cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes to add a bit of heat

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.

    Incorporate the Spices: Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and if you like a kick, the optional chili flakes. Stir well and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to become aromatic.

      Combine All Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes and rinsed lentils to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the bay leaf and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

        Simmer the Soup: Increase the heat and bring the soup to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes or until both the lentils and potatoes are tender.

          Finish and Adjust the Flavor: After cooking, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Season your soup generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If desired, for a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or mash a few potato pieces against the side of the pot with a fork.

            Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a wholesome meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings