Vegan Lentil Soup

Ingredients: green or brown lentils, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper.

Here’s a hearty and delicious recipe for Vegan Lentil Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
   • Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Lentils:
   • Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season and Add Greens:
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • If using, add the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
   • Stir in the lemon juice, if using, for a bright, fresh flavor.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the lentil soup hot, with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your warm and comforting Vegan Lentil Soup!