Lentil cream soup

Green lentil cream soup: a warm hug in a bowl

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Green lentil cream soup is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for chilly days or when you crave comfort. This soup not only offers a smooth texture and rich flavor, but it is also an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. Lentils, a staple ingredient in many cultures, have been valued for centuries for their nutritional benefits. Let’s embark on the journey of making this soul-warming soup!

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g green lentils
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 2 onions
- 1 leek
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1-2 tablespoons Delicat (or salt, to taste)
- Olive oil for frying
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
- Croutons (optional, for serving)

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the lentils: Start by rinsing the green lentils in two or three waters to remove impurities. After rinsing well, let them soak for 40 minutes. This step not only helps reduce cooking time but also makes the lentils easier to digest.

2. Boiling the lentils: In a large pot, add the soaked lentils and cover them with water, making sure to use twice the amount of water as lentils. Place the pot on the heat and bring it to a boil. After it has boiled for 2-3 minutes, change the water twice. This will help eliminate some impurities and improve the soup's flavor.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the lentils have started to boil well, add the finely chopped vegetables: carrot, parsnip, celery, and onion. It’s important to cut the vegetables into small pieces for even and quick cooking. Also, add the crushed garlic, sweet paprika, bay leaf, and Delicat (or salt). Let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, until the lentils and vegetables are fully cooked.

4. Transforming into cream soup: When the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn the mixture into a smooth cream soup. If you prefer a less smooth texture, you can leave some vegetable pieces intact for a pleasant contrast.

5. Finalizing the soup: After achieving the desired consistency, add the finely chopped fresh dill and mix gently. Here you can customize the soup to your taste by adding more Delicat or spices if needed. If you want a richer cream soup, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt when serving.

6. Serving: Serve the green lentil cream soup warm, garnished with crunchy croutons for added texture. A slice of toasted bread spread with butter or olive oil can also work wonders alongside this delicious soup.

Practical tips:

- Choosing lentils: Green lentils are ideal for soups as they hold their shape and texture. You can also try red lentils, which cook faster and become creamier but have a slightly different taste.
- Customization: Add spices like cumin or coriander to diversify flavors. You can also experiment with the vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Cook in advance: This soup keeps very well in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for later enjoyment. It’s perfect for quick meals during the week!

Nutritional benefits:

Green lentil cream soup is rich in plant-based protein, high in fiber, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Lentils contain B vitamins, iron, and essential minerals, contributing to maintaining a healthy immune system and overall well-being.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned lentils?: It is recommended to use dried lentils for the best texture, but if you're short on time, you can use canned lentils, adding them towards the end of cooking.
2. How can I enhance the soup's flavor?: Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar before serving to intensify the flavors.
3. What else can I add?: You can incorporate vegetables like potatoes or pumpkin, as well as herbs like basil or thyme for a more complex flavor.

Green lentil cream soup is not just a quick and simple recipe, but also an excellent way to enjoy a healthy and comforting meal. Whether you savor it alone or with loved ones, each spoonful will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!