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Healthy-ish Bites | A Simple Lentil Soup Recipe for Winter

Here’s a simple yet nourishing recipe, perfect for those cold, dark winter days when you crave something to warm the heart and soul. – Scroll down for the simple lentil soup recipe!

This lentil soup is my go-to after a busy day; it’s wholesome, comforting, and comes together with minimal effort. The ingredients are easy to find – you likely already have everything in your kitchen – and the steps are straightforward. Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste and add a personal twist if you’re feeling adventurous.

Just spare 30 minutes to follow this simple lentil soup recipe – I promise you won’t regret it.

simple lentil soup recipe

 

Ingredients for this Simple Lentil Soup Recipe:

  • 2 cups dried red lentils, rinsed (using a 200 ml cup)
  • 1 small carrot, chopped
  • 1 small potato, diced (optional, for added texture)
  • 1 teaspoon butternut squash or pumpkin, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon tomato paste or 1 tablespoon chopped tomatoes
  • 1/2 block organic vegetable stock cube
  • 2 litres water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice and chili flakes, to taste

Steps – Pressure Cooker Method

  1. Add lentils, carrot, potato, butternut squash, and one glass of water to your pressure cooker and stir.
  2. Add olive oil (if using), turmeric, ginger, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and stock cube.
  3. Add another glass of water and keep stirring to prevent the base of the pot from burning.
  4. Add the remaining water and bring the mixture to a boil. Depending on your pressure cooker settings, cook for 25–30 minutes until the potatoes and carrot are softened.

dried red lentils

Steps – Regular Pot Method

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrot, potatoes, and butternut squash. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the rinsed lentils.
  3. Add turmeric, ginger, salt, pepper, tomato paste, and stock cube. Stir and cook for a minute.
  4. Add the remaining water, bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to low/medium. Let it simmer for 30–35 minutes until the potatoes and carrot are softened.

Additional Tips:

  • For Smoother Texture: Blend the cooked mixture in a food processor or blender until smooth.

  • Season and Adjust: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
  • Serve: Enjoy warm with a slice of crusty bread.
  • Optional: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and chili flakes to your bowl for a brighter taste.

One of the secrets to making this simple lentil soup truly lies in the spices. Spices like turmeric and ginger not only add depth and warmth to the dish, but they also bring numerous health benefits. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger can help soothe digestion and boost the immune system. Incorporating spices into your cooking can transform a simple recipe into a vibrant culinary experience, allowing you to explore different flavours and aromas. Be playful each time you make this soup and  adjust the spices to suit your taste or to try adding your favourites. Each tweak will make the soup uniquely yours, inviting comfort and joy into your kitchen.

This lentil soup is more than just a meal – it’s a comforting bowl of goodness to lift your spirits on chilly days.

Cooking can have a meditative quality, inviting us to slow down, be present, and show love to ourselves and those we care about. So, cosy up with a warm bowl, savour each bite, and feel free to add your own touch.

Happy cooking, and stay warm!

warm lentil soup for chili days
enjoy your soup with crusty bread

 

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