A Comprehensive Guide to Making Green Lentil Soup

Green lentil soup is a nutritious and hearty dish that provides a perfect balance of flavors and health benefits. Making this soup is not only easy but also allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps involved in crafting a delicious green lentil soup, along with the key ingredients required.

Ingredients Required for Green Lentil Soup

To prepare a classic green lentil soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of green lentils (washed and drained)

• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

• 2 carrots (diced)

• 2 celery stalks (diced)

• 3 cloves of garlic (minced)

• 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• Fresh parsley (for garnishing)

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful base for your soup. You may also choose to incorporate additional vegetables such as tomatoes or spinach for enhanced nutrition and flavor.

Steps to Make Green Lentil Soup

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation process for making green lentil soup:

1. Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté the mixture for an additional minute to release the flavors.

3. Combine Lentils and Broth: Add the green lentils and broth to the pot. Toss in the bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer: After boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

5. Finish and Serve: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Adjust the seasoning if necessary and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
   

Enjoy your healthy and comforting bowl of green lentil soup as a main dish or as a side. It's perfect for a warming meal any time of the year!