Easy Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup as the weather turns crisp. Picture this: a hearty Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon bubbling on the stove, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas that could make even the grumpiest cat purr. Just imagine all those flavors dancing together – earthy lentils mingling with zesty lemon and aromatic cumin. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.

Now, if you’re anything like me, soup isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. I fondly remember the first time I made this delightful dish—it was one of those rainy days when everything seemed grey. My friends were coming over, and I thought, “What would warm their hearts?” This soup transformed our gloomy evening into a cozy gathering filled with laughter and second helpings. So grab your apron because you’re about to embark on a flavor adventure that will make you the culinary hero of your kitchen!

I still chuckle remembering how my friends raved about this soup’s zestiness while trying to guess its secret ingredient—no one suspected it was just good ol’ lemon!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green or Brown Lentils: These varieties hold their shape well during cooking—make sure to rinse them before use!
• Onion: Choose a medium onion; it adds sweetness when sautéed.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add color and natural sweetness; chop them evenly for consistent cooking.
• Celery: Makes the base flavorful; opt for firm stalks without blemishes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best—nothing beats that aromatic punch!
• Cumin Seeds: Toast them slightly before adding to unleash their full flavor potential.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the entire dish—don’t skip this!
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil helps sauté vegetables beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s natural flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery; cook until softened and fragrant.

Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in minced garlic and toasted cumin seeds for about one minute until they release their delightful aromas.

Add Lentils & Broth: Toss in rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil; reduce heat to simmer.

Simmer Until Tender: Allow the soup to simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender yet firm. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Lemon Juice & Seasoning: Once cooked, remove from heat; stir in fresh lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve Hot & Enjoy!: Ladle into bowls while still steaming hot; garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

This easy recipe is not only tasty but also nourishing—making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need comfort in a bowl!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add lentils and spices. Pour in broth and simmer until tender for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lentils with beans or add veggies like carrots and spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for seconds, which was a huge compliment since I usually burn toast.

FAQ

Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Yes, just remember to soak them beforehand for quicker cooking times.

Is this soup vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This lentil soup with cumin and lemon is entirely plant-based and delicious.

Can I freeze leftover lentil soup?

Yes, freeze it in portions so you can enjoy it later without losing flavor.

Print

Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon is a hearty, aromatic dish that warms the soul. This easy recipe combines earthy lentils with zesty lemon and fragrant cumin for a delightful experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and toasted cumin seeds for one minute.
3. Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer.
4. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Remove from heat; stir in fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with herbs if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Toasting cumin seeds before adding them enhances their flavor. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days or freeze portions for later enjoyment.