If you're a fan of lentil soup, you know how tough it can be to find the perfect recipe. Well, after my wife Marceen trying at least 20-30 different versions (from home to restaurants), she declared this one to be the best I've made—and it easily ranks in the top 3 of all she's ever had! Simple, flavorful, and satisfying, this lentil soup has quickly become a family favorite, and I think it might just become yours too. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Ingredients:
- 1
(32-ounce) carton of chicken stock
- 1 cup
dried lentils (I prefer red)
- 1/2
onion, chopped
- 2
stalks celery, sliced
- 1
(14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 1/2
teaspoons cumin
- 1 1/2
teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1
teaspoon salt
- 1
tablespoon olive oil
- 1
tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 8 drops lemon essential oil (optional, but highly recommended)
Note: Since lemons can sometimes be unpredictable in terms of acidity, I found that adding white wine vinegar brings a more controlled and predictable level of acidity to the soup. The lemon essential oil, on the other hand, gives just the right hint of lemon flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It's the perfect balance!
Instructions:
- Prepare
Lentils:
- In a
large pot, add the chicken stock and lentils.
- Bring
to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Sauté
Vegetables:
- While
the lentils are simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over
medium heat.
- Add
the chopped onion and sliced celery.
- Sprinkle
in the cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Sauté
until the vegetables are soft and caramelized.
- Add
Tomatoes:
- Add
the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pan.
- Stir
to deglaze and scrape any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Combine
and Simmer:
- Transfer
the sautéed vegetable mixture into the simmering pot of lentils.
- Let
the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Blend
and Finish:
- Use
an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar and 8 drops of lemon essential oil (if using).
- Adjust
seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Enjoy
hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs,
if desired.
