“`html
If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that is both nutritious and incredibly satisfying, look no further than this Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe. Bursting with wholesome ingredients like tender lentils, soft potatoes, and fragrant herbs, it’s a simple, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup brings together layers of flavor with an ease that makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this soup’s straightforward steps and accessible ingredients will have you falling in love with lentils all over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously to create a balanced and vibrant soup. Each component plays a crucial role, whether adding depth, texture, or a pop of color, so gathering these essentials will set you up for success.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: For sautéing the aromatics and bringing out their natural sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds bold, savory flavor that lingers beautifully.
- 1/4 cup diced onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and foundation for the soup’s flavor.
- 1 large carrot (3-4 oz), diced: Offers a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 12 oz potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces: Adds creaminess and satisfying bite to the soup’s texture.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the flavor with a rich, tangy base.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional): Enhances the tomato flavor and adds moisture if you want a saucier soup.
- 1 1/4 cups lentils (green, red split, black, or mix): The star ingredient, packed with protein and fiber to make this soup hearty.
- 2 tsp salt: Brings out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: For a subtle heat and depth in each spoonful.
- 1/4 tsp thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that complements the lentils beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp oregano: Adds a slightly peppery, aromatic layer to the soup.
- 4-5 cups water: Provides the necessary liquid to cook the soup and create its comforting broth.
How to Make Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and sauté until it just begins to soften, about one minute. Then, stir in the minced garlic and diced carrot, cooking them gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor foundation you’ll love throughout the soup. The aroma at this stage is already enough to get you excited!
Step 2: Add the Base and Lentils
Next, stir in the tomato paste and optional tomato sauce along with the lentils. Cooking these together for a minute allows the tomato paste to blend beautifully with the veggies, while the lentils get a little toasty, awakening their flavor. This combination forms a rich and hearty base that sets your soup apart.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Liquids
Time to add the potatoes and water! Pour in 4 cups of water and mix everything well. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. These seasonings gently infuse the soup with earthy and aromatic notes that perfectly complement the lentils and potatoes. You’ll notice how these ingredients come together in a delicious embrace.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Cover your pot with a lid and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 25 to 35 minutes. This slow simmering is the magic that allows the lentils to cook through and the potatoes to become beautifully tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if you prefer a thinner, brothier soup.
Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve
Give your soup a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if it needs a little boost. Now it’s ready to serve! Ladle this comforting soup into bowls and prepare for the cozy goodness about to warm your soul. This last step is the moment where all the careful layering of flavors truly shines.
How to Serve Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup is delicious on its own, adding fresh garnishes can take each spoonful up a notch. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or a few thyme leaves for a pop of color and brightness. A drizzle of olive oil or a spoonful of plain yogurt can add creaminess and richness that perfectly complements the rustic flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty whole-grain bread or warm naan to soak up every last drop of broth. A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette would also balance the meal nicely, offering crisp freshness against the smooth, hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also blend part of the soup for a creamier texture while leaving the rest chunky for contrast. Garnishing with toasted nuts or seeds adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance to your everyday meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any remaining soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, your soup will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. When stored properly, it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight and gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, stir in a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Microwave reheating in a microwave-safe bowl also works well—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use different types of lentils for this soup?
Absolutely! Green lentils provide a firmer texture, while red split lentils cook faster and tend to break down, creating a creamier soup. Black lentils add an earthy flavor. You can also mix types for a varied texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to add tomato sauce, or can I skip it?
The tomato sauce is optional and adds a slightly tangy richness. If you prefer a lighter tomato flavor or want to keep ingredients minimal, you can skip it without compromising the overall taste of the soup.
How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses vegetable oil and plant-based ingredients. To keep it vegan, just avoid toppings like cheese or cream and opt for plant-based garnishes instead.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when you add the seasonings for a subtle kick. Adjust the heat to your liking for a spicy twist on this comforting classic.
What can I add to make the soup more filling?
For extra heartiness, consider stirring in cooked grains like brown rice or quinoa towards the end of cooking. Adding chopped kale or spinach also boosts nutritional value and adds vibrant color.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe is truly a gem—a warm, wholesome bowl of comfort that is both simple and satisfying. Its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a go-to in any kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own, whether for a cozy night in or a meal to share with loved ones. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this soup, it will become a treasured staple in your recipe collection!
“`
Print
Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This easy lentil potato soup is a hearty and comforting dish made with a blend of aromatic vegetables, tomato paste, and a medley of lentils simmered to perfection with tender potatoes. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal, this soup combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, wholesome broth that’s satisfying and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Aromatics
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 large carrot (3–4 oz), diced
Soup Base and Lentils
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional)
- 1 1/4 cups lentils (green, red split, black, or a mix; green works well)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 12 oz potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp oregano
Liquids
- 4–5 cups water
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 1 minute until it begins to soften. Then add the minced garlic and diced carrot, stirring frequently. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the vegetables start to soften, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Base & Lentils: Stir in the tomato paste, and if using, the tomato sauce. Add the lentils and cook for another minute, allowing the tomato paste to meld with the vegetables and to slightly toast the lentils.
- Add Potatoes & Liquids: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in 4 cups of water, reserving the additional cup for later use if needed to adjust consistency. Stir in salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 25-35 minutes. Check occasionally, stirring to prevent sticking, and add more water if you prefer a thinner soup. The lentils should be fully cooked and the potatoes tender when done.
- Final Seasoning & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs if you like.
Notes
- You can use any type of lentils or a combination, but green lentils work particularly well for texture.
- Adjust water quantity based on your preferred soup thickness.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and also freeze nicely.
- This soup is naturally vegan and gluten free.
