Red lentil soup

Red lentil soup is a dish with a rich history, cherished over time for its comforting flavor and nutritional benefits. This soup is not just a nourishing meal, but also an excellent choice for cold days, a true indulgence for the soul. With a mix of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, red lentil soup becomes a perfect choice for lunch or dinner, offering not only taste but also an explosion of colors on the plate.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g red lentils
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 2-3 green onions
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon sweet pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
- Hot pepper (optional, for serving)
- Toasted bread or croutons for serving

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash and peel the carrot and parsley root. Chop the green onion finely, and crush the garlic lightly with the blade of a knife to release its flavors.

2. Washing the lentils: The red lentils need to be washed well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and to achieve a clean and tasty soup. Continue rinsing the lentils until the water runs clear, then let them drain.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a medium-sized pot, add the olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will form the flavor base of the soup.

4. Adding the carrot and parsley: Add the grated carrot and parsley root to the pot and mix well. Let the vegetables sauté together for 5 minutes to bring out the flavors.

5. Adding the lentils and water: Now it's time to add the drained lentils to the pot. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, usually about 1 liter. Season with salt, pepper, and ground coriander. Mix well.

6. Boiling the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. The lentils will become soft and start to break down, giving the soup a creamy texture.

7. Finalizing the dish: Once the lentils are cooked, add the sweet pepper paste and mix well to integrate the flavors. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if you prefer a thinner soup.

8. Serving: Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or dill. You can add fresh hot pepper for an extra kick, and for a delicious contrast, serve with garlic-rubbed toasted bread or crunchy croutons.

Practical tips:
- Vegetarian option: This soup is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
- Optional additions: You can experiment with adding vegetables like celery or zucchini to further diversify the soup's flavor.
- Alternative serving: Instead of croutons, you can try adding some toasted seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) for an extra crunch.

Nutritional benefits:
Red lentil soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients. Lentils are rich in iron, making them ideal for vegans and vegetarians, while the vegetables add vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to overall health. This soup is low in calories, with about 180-200 calories per serving, making it a perfect choice for those looking to stay fit.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use green or brown lentils? Yes, you can use other types of lentils, but the cooking time will vary. Green and brown lentils require more cooking time.
2. How can I store the soup? The soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can freeze the soup to keep it longer.
3. Is this soup suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy and tasty choice for the whole family. You can adjust the spices to be milder if necessary.

Red lentil soup is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavors in every spoonful. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 g red lentils, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 2-3 green onions, 3-4 cloves of garlic, a pinch of ground coriander, 1 tablespoon of roasted red pepper paste, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and pepper.