Lentil soup

Lentil soup with spicy sauce: a comforting delight

When it comes to dishes that warm the soul, lentil soup holds a special place in the hearts of many. This simple and quick recipe not only provides a nourishing meal but also a perfect opportunity to explore varied flavors and textures. Moreover, it is a healthy dish, packed with protein and fiber, that will energize your day. So, get ready to delight your taste buds with this delicious lentil soup!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 cup (about 200 g) of lentils (preferably green or red lentils)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 ½ beef stock cubes (or, for a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock)
- 1 ½ liters of water
- For the sauce:
- 2 tablespoons of margarine
- 1-2 tablespoons of chili flakes (adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Lemon juice (to taste)
- Grated cheese (optional, for serving)
- Croutons (optional, for serving)

Ingredient details:
- Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber and vitamins. They help maintain digestive health and cholesterol levels. Choose green or red lentils based on your preference; red lentils cook faster, while green lentils hold their shape better.
- Onions add a sweet and aromatic flavor, serving as the base for many soups and stews. It is recommended to choose a medium-sized onion, and if you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can opt for sweet onions.
- Carrots bring extra sweetness and color, and besides flavor, they are a good source of vitamin A, beneficial for vision.

Step by step: Making lentil soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Rinse the lentils well under cold water to remove impurities. If using green lentils, it's good to soak them for 1-2 hours before cooking, although this step is not essential.
- Peel the onion and carrot. Chop the onion finely and dice the carrot. These cuts will help with even and quick cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrot and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Adding lentils and flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and mix well, allowing it to cook lightly for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the soup.
- Add the rinsed lentils and the beef (or vegetable) stock and mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Boiling the soup:
- Pour in 1 ½ liters of water and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

5. Blending the soup:
- Once the lentils are well cooked, take a portion of the soup and place it in a blender. Blend until smooth, then pour it back into the pot. This step will add a creamy texture to your soup.

6. Preparing the spicy sauce:
- In a frying pan, melt the 2 tablespoons of margarine over high heat. Add the chili flakes and let them fry for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn them. This sauce will add a spicy note to your soup.

7. Serving:
- Serve the soup hot in bowls, adding the spicy sauce on top. You can drizzle with lemon juice to add a fresh note and enhance the flavors.
- Optionally, add grated cheese and croutons for a crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:
This lentil soup is perfect to enjoy alongside a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad. You can serve it for lunch or dinner, and for a complete meal, add a glass of dry white wine or iced green tea.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables such as celery, zucchini, or even potatoes for a heartier soup. You can also substitute lentils with beans if you prefer a different version.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned lentils? Yes, you can use canned lentils, but make sure to drain them well and add them a few minutes before the soup is done cooking.
- How can I store the soup? Lentil soup keeps well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Is this soup vegan? If you use vegetable stock, the soup becomes vegan. Olive oil and the vegetables used are all vegan.

Nutritional benefits:
This lentil soup is packed with nutrients, rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins. It is an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor. A serving of soup can have approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe, and feel free to personalize it to your taste! Lentil soup is not just a comforting meal but also a great way to bring a touch of health into your life. Savor every spoonful!

 Ingredients: 1 onion; 1 carrot; 1 cup lentils; 1 tablespoon flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 1/2 beef concentrate; 1 1/2 liters water for the sauce: 2 tablespoons margarine; 1-2 tablespoons chili flakes; lemon; grated cheese; croutons optional

 Tags:  lentil soup