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When the weather turns chilly and the days grow shorter, comfort food becomes an essential part of our culinary repertoire. It’s the kind of food that warms not only the body but also the soul. However, comfort food doesn’t always have to equate to indulgent and heavy meals; it can also be nutritious and wholesome. Enter the Warm and Wholesome Lentil Delight—an inviting dish that marries the richness of flavor with an array of health benefits.

Hearty Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Warm and Wholesome Lentil Delight recipe. Perfect for chilly days, this hearty dish combines nutritious lentils with aromatic vegetables, spices, and your choice of broth. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it nourishes both body and soul. Easy to make and ideal for meal prep, this lentil delight is sure to satisfy any craving while keeping things light and healthful. Try it today for a cozy and fulfilling meal experience!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, including their juices

2 cups kale or spinach, roughly chopped (optional)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

    Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrots and celery into the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and enhance their flavors.

      Spice it Up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to ensure the spices release their aromatic qualities without burning.

        Combine Lentils and Liquid: Pour in the rinsed lentils along with the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir thoughtfully to combine all ingredients well.

          Simmer: Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

            Add Greens (Optional): If desired, stir in the chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow the greens to wilt and infuse the soup with added nutrition and color.

              Season to Taste: Once the lentils are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference.

                Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and generously garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy your hearty lentil soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                    Presentation Tips: Serve with a drizzle of olive oil on top or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick!