why make this recipe
Hearty Lentil Kale Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that warms you up on cooler days. It is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their health. The combination of lentils and kale creates a filling dish that is also good for your heart and digestion. Plus, it is simple to make and can be enjoyed by vegans and meat-eaters alike.
how to make Hearty Lentil Kale Soup
Ingredients :
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Directions :
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before serving.
how to serve Hearty Lentil Kale Soup
Serve Hearty Lentil Kale Soup hot in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, on top for added flavor.
how to store Hearty Lentil Kale Soup
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Hearty Lentil Kale Soup
- If you like a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
- You can use any leafy greens you have on hand, like spinach or Swiss chard, instead of kale.
- For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
variation (if any)
You can make this soup heartier by adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes. You can also include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, depending on your taste preferences.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse them and add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking since they are already cooked.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this soup a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian option.
Hearty Lentil Kale Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth Can substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
- 2 cups kale, chopped Any leafy green can be used.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice before serving.