Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a warm bowl of vegan lentil soup. I remember the first time I made this recipe on a chilly evening, filling my kitchen with the delightful aromas of sautéed vegetables and spices. What I love about vegan lentil soup is that it’s nourishing, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a simple yet flavorful meal. This soup is also wonderfully versatile, making it suitable for anyone looking to enjoy plant-based goodness.
This dish combines the earthy flavors of French green lentils with a blend of fresh vegetables and spices, resulting in a warm, comforting bowl that envelops you in its rich texture and warming spices. Whether you’re having guests over or just cooking for yourself, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to cook, ready in under an hour.
- Rich, comforting flavors everyone will enjoy.
- Affordable ingredients that are pantry-friendly.
- Simple prep means fewer dishes to wash.
- Great for meal prep; freezes well.
"Tastes incredible and so simple to make."
Step-by-step overview
To prepare vegan lentil soup, you’ll start by sautéing a blend of onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, you will add minced garlic, lentils, vegetable broth, and seasonings. After bringing it to a boil, you let the soup simmer to perfection, allowing the lentils to soften and absorb all the yummy flavors. You’ll have a deliciously comforting soup in about 35 minutes!
What you’ll need for vegan lentil soup
- 1 cup French green lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Lentils: French green lentils hold their texture well; you can substitute with brown lentils but cook for a shorter time.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add any vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can add brightness. Consider using fresh thyme instead of dried for increased flavor.
- Allergen alert: This dish is naturally gluten-free and suitable for most diets.
Cooking method
Making vegan lentil soup is straightforward! First, sauté the vegetables to build the foundation of flavor. Next, you’ll introduce the lentils and broth, then let the magic happen as it simmers, filling your home with its delightful scent.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (mirepoix) and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the lentils, broth, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Pro Tip: For creaminess, consider blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot to mix with the rest.
To know if your soup is done, look for the lentils to be tender, and enjoy the aromatic blend of spices.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use olive oil for flavor and a hint of richness.
- Ensure your vegetables are diced uniformly for even cooking.
- Don’t skip sautéing the mirepoix, as it significantly enhances the soup flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end; salt can accentuate flavors but too much early can lead to a bland finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
This vegan lentil soup is delicious all on its own, but you can elevate your dish by serving it with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. A dollop of vegan sour cream or a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even further. It also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad.
Storage & reheating tips
Leftover vegan lentil soup can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for several days. It also freezes well; just make sure it’s cooled down before transferring to freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove until steaming hot. Enjoy the comforting warmth again!
How to fix common issues
- If the soup is too thick: Add a little more broth or water and stir well until you reach the desired consistency.
- If it tastes bland: Enhance flavors by adding a pinch more salt, a splash of vinegar, or additional spices like smoked paprika.
- If the lentils are mushy: Consider reducing the cooking time next time; keep an eye on your lentils in the last few minutes of cooking.
Creative twists for your soup
You can easily customize your vegan lentil soup. Adding more veggies can boost both nutrition and flavor. For a twist, consider adding spinach or kale just before serving for extra color and benefits. You might also enjoy the warmth of curry powder or a splash of soy sauce for an umami kick.
Common questions
Can I add meat to the soup?
While this is a vegan soup, feel free to add cooked meat such as chicken or turkey. Ensure it’s heated through before serving.
How can I make this soup spicy?
A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can boost the heat. Add it gradually until you reach your preferred spice level.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup keeps well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for several weeks.
What can I substitute for lentils?
If you want to mix it up, you can substitute beans like chickpeas or kidney beans, but be mindful that the cooking times may vary significantly.
Indulging in a hearty bowl of vegan lentil soup can offer comfort, warmth, and nourishment that all come together in a vibrant, flavorful dish. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or gathering with friends, this is a recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
Vegan Lentil Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery (mirepoix) and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the lentils, broth, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-35 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.