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This hearty lentil soup is a cherished recipe that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. Born from a simple afternoon of experimentation, it has evolved into the ultimate comfort dish that manages to be both satisfying and nutritious.
Classic Comfort Soup
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming basic ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal that awaits after a long day. The fragrant spices and tender lentils create something truly special.
Essential Ingredients
- Lentils: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Onion: 1 medium, diced finely
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes: 1 can diced
- Vegetable Stock: 4 cups
- Baby Spinach: 2 cups fresh
- Seasonings: Ground cumin, coriander, paprika
- Fresh Lemon: 2 tablespoons juice
Preparation Method
- Initial Prep
- Prepare vegetables and rinse lentils thoroughly
- Base Assembly
- Combine all ingredients except spinach and lemon juice
- Slow Cook
- Set to low heat for 6 hours until lentils are tender
- Blend
- Partially blend for ideal texture
- Finishing
- Add spinach and lemon juice before serving
- Serve
- Ladle into bowls while hot
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Serving Suggestions
Crusty artisan bread makes an ideal companion to this soup. Consider toasted garlic bread or warm naan bread for dipping. A light green salad rounds out the meal perfectly.
Tips for Success
Thorough lentil rinsing prevents any grittiness. Adjust seasonings to taste throughout cooking. Fresh greens work best, though heartier alternatives like kale can be substituted with extended cooking time.
Variations
Consider adding diced sweet potato or summer squash for variety. A splash of coconut milk creates extra richness. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Storage Guide
Flavors develop beautifully over 48 hours in the refrigerator. Freeze in containers with expansion space for up to three months.
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Batch Cooking Benefits
Prepare a large batch for convenient weekday meals. Portion into containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Nourishing Benefits
This soup offers the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. The blend of aromatic spices and hearty ingredients creates a deeply satisfying meal.
Customization Notes
Adjust consistency and seasoning levels to preference. A smooth puree works well for those who prefer creamier textures.
Nutritional Highlights
Rich in plant protein and dietary fiber, this nourishing soup provides sustained energy. The combination of vegetables and legumes creates a complete, wholesome meal.
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Summary
A deep dive into making a wholesome vegan lentil soup in your slow cooker, highlighting simple steps and ways to enhance taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What’s the purpose of rinsing lentils?
It clears off little specks of dirt or debris, making sure your dish is clean and safe.
- → Why blend some of the soup?
It adds a creamy texture while keeping other parts chunky for variety.
- → When do I put in the spinach?
Toss it in right at the end, stir till it softens so it keeps its nutrients.
- → What’s the deal with lemon juice?
It gives the soup a fresh, zesty kick and brightens all the flavors.
- → Can I prep this in advance?
Totally. Let the flavors meld overnight, then warm it up and throw in spinach when serving.