From grandma's recipe box
Lentil Soups Recipes
Humble, filling bowls made with simple lentils. These soups are easy on the budget and full of cozy flavor.
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About Lentil Soups
Lentil soup is made with dried lentils that cook down into a thick, soft bowl. Red lentils break apart and turn creamy. Brown and green lentils hold their shape more. Onion, garlic, carrot, and spices like cumin make a simple, tasty base.
Unlike other soups in this section, lentil soups need no long simmering of bones or meat. Lentils cook in about half an hour and thicken the pot on their own. That makes them a bit heartier than vegetable soups and quicker than stews.
Questions folks ask
Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?
No. Lentils do not need soaking. Just rinse them and they will cook in about 20 to 30 minutes.
Which lentils are best for soup?
Red lentils make a smooth, creamy soup. Brown or green lentils keep their shape, so they suit a chunkier bowl.
Why is my lentil soup too thick?
Lentils soak up liquid as they sit. Stir in a little hot water or stock until it looks right.
Kitchen tips
- Rinse lentils and pick out any small stones before cooking.
- Red lentils cook fastest and work well for smooth soups.
- Add salt and acids like lemon juice near the end of cooking.
- Fry your spices in a little oil first to bring out their flavor.
- Soup thickens as it sits, so add a splash of water when reheating.