Winter Vegetable Lentil Soup (Print Version)

Comforting winter vegetables and lentils meld in a warm, flavorful bowl.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
05 - 2 parsnips, peeled and diced
06 - 2 celery stalks, diced
07 - 1 small turnip, peeled and cubed
08 - 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
09 - 1 cup chopped kale or Swiss chard, stems removed

→ Legumes & Grains

10 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed

→ Liquids

11 - 6 cups vegetable broth
12 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice

→ Spices & Seasonings

13 - 1 bay leaf
14 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
16 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
18 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

→ Finishing

19 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
20 - Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Add minced garlic, diced carrots, parsnips, celery, turnip, and sweet potato. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Stir in rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
04 - Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender.
05 - Incorporate chopped kale or Swiss chard and simmer an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
06 - Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if using.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Hearty and filling for cold winter days
  • Vegan and gluten-free, suitable for many diets
02 -
  • Lentils cook quickly and don't require soaking
  • This soup freezes well for future meals
03 -
  • Swap kale for spinach or collard greens if you prefer
  • Stir in a tablespoon of olive oil before serving for added richness
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