Name: Grandmas Lentil Soup: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

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Grandmas Lentil Soup is a comforting bowl that brings warmth and nourishment, just like Grandma used to make. This easy lentil soup recipe features hearty lentils, fresh vegetables, and warm spices that make it perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also deeply nourishing, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into this traditional grandma lentil soup!

Why You’ll Love This Grandmas Lentil Soup

This classic lentil soup by grandma deserves a spot in your recipe collection for many reasons. First, it’s a hearty lentil soup for family gatherings, perfect for those chilly nights when you need something filling. Second, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a nutritious lentil soup for kids who need wholesome meals. Third, the use of fresh vegetables and spices means you’re serving up something healthy. Fourth, it’s a quick and easy lentil soup that even beginners can master. Fifth, it’s vegan, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it. Finally, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to feed a family without breaking the bank. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 35 minutes, you’ll be enjoying Grandma’s homemade lentil soup in no time!

Ingredients for Grandmas Lentil Soup

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

How to Make Grandmas Lentil Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and onions are translucent, about 7 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add lentils to the pot and stir to coat. Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Remove bay leaves. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add parsley or dill and lemon juice if using.
Step 6: Serve warm with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Grandmas Lentil Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the spices to suit your taste; consider adding cumin for warmth.
For a smooth texture, blend a portion of the soup after cooking.
This recipe is great for meal prep; make a big batch and store it.

Best Ways to Serve Grandmas Lentil Soup

Here are a few ideas:

Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Pair with a fresh side salad to add some crunch.
Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Grandmas Lentil Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes it a one-pot lentil soup for busy nights, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grandmas Lentil Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Grandmas Lentil Soup?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the soup to simmer gently. This helps meld the flavors beautifully, creating a comforting lentil soup recipe that tastes just like Grandma’s.

Can I make Grandmas Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This homemade lentil soup from grandma can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve when the soup sits overnight, making it even more delicious!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Grandmas Lentil Soup?

To avoid mushy lentils, be sure to check them for doneness frequently. Also, don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds essential flavor to the soup. Following these tips will help you make a traditional grandma lentil soup that your family will love.

Grandmas Lentil Soup: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed - Grandmas Lentil Soup - additional detail

Variations of Grandmas Lentil Soup You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:

Add chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Try using different lentils, like red lentils for a sweeter taste.
Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

This vegan lentil soup inspired by grandma is not only flexible but also packed with flavor. Enjoy!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a hearty dish, our Italian sausage and peppers recipe is a must-try!