Lentil soup has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. Packed with earthy flavors, hearty textures, and simple ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort food. This old-fashioned lentil soup recipe is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to dish for any day of the week.
1. Old Fashioned Lentil Soup Recipe (6 Servings)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups dried brown lentils (rinsed and drained)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (14-ounce or 400 ml) can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine the base ingredients: Add the vegetable broth, lentils, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate tomatoes: Once the lentils are cooked, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and simmer for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finish with vinegar: Stir in the red wine vinegar and season with salt to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm with your favorite accompaniments.
This old-fashioned lentil soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect on its own or paired with a side of bread.
2. Tips To Perfect Lentil Soup
A few helpful tips can take your lentil soup from good to outstanding:
Choose the right lentils: Brown lentils are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape while becoming tender. Avoid red lentils, as they tend to break down and create a mushier texture.
Rinse lentils thoroughly: Washing the lentils removes any dirt or debris and ensures a cleaner flavor.
Don’t skip the herbs: Rosemary and thyme add depth to the soup. Fresh herbs bring a brighter flavor, but dried herbs work just as well.
Balance the flavors: The red wine vinegar at the end adds a tangy brightness that balances the earthy lentils. You can also use lemon juice if preferred.
Taste and adjust: As the soup simmers, taste occasionally and adjust the seasoning as needed. Lentils absorb flavors, so a pinch of extra salt or black pepper might be necessary.
3. What To Eat With Old Fashioned Lentil Soup
Lentil soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making the meal feel complete and satisfying:
Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
Grilled Cheese: A gooey grilled cheese sandwich makes a comforting companion to the soup.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the soup over a bed of rice or quinoa for added texture and heartiness.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or sweet potatoes, complements the earthy flavors of the lentils.
These pairings enhance both the flavor and texture of the meal, creating a wholesome dining experience.
4. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Old-fashioned lentil soup stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing: Lentil soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
By storing it properly, you can enjoy this comforting soup anytime without losing its delicious flavor.
Old-fashioned lentil soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, nourishing bowl of goodness that’s easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients. With its simple recipe, customizable options, and perfect pairings, this soup is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor every spoonful of this hearty, flavorful dish!
