Cozy Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery Recipe Delight

Name: Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, crushed; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

May 8, 2025

Updated:

May 8, 2025

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Lentil soup with carrots and celery is that warm hug on a chilly day, wrapping you in a cocoon of cozy goodness. Picture this: the earthy aroma of simmering lentils, mingling with the sweetness of carrots and crunch of celery, wafts through your kitchen like an inviting perfume, beckoning everyone to gather around the table.

This delightful dish isn’t just food; it’s a comforting memory in a bowl. I remember slurping up my grandmother’s lentil soup as a child, her secret touch making it taste like love itself. Whether you’re having a lazy Sunday or hosting friends for game night, this soul-soothing soup promises to elevate every occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This lentil soup with carrots and celery is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The robust flavors and colorful ingredients create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
Enjoy its versatility by adding whatever veggies or seasonings you have on hand
This soup is not just healthy; it’s also deliciously satisfying and filling!

If there’s one thing my friends have learned about me, it’s that I don’t mess around when it comes to lentil soup. Every time I make this, they practically line up at my door with bowls in hand, begging for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green or Brown Lentils: These are hearty and hold their shape well during cooking; rinse before using for best results.
Carrots: Opt for fresh, vibrant carrots; they add sweetness and color to your soup.
Celery: Choose crisp stalks that will provide a refreshing crunch and aromatic flavor base.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works wonders; chop finely to release its sweet flavor when sautéed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves boost the flavor; crush them to release their aromatic oils.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while keeping the soup flavorful.
Dried Thyme: A teaspoon adds a lovely herbaceous note; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Bay Leaf: Just one leaf adds depth; don’t forget to remove it before serving!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; add these at various stages of cooking for balanced flavor throughout.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and chopping all your veggies—carrots, celery, onion, and garlic—so they’re ready to go. This step makes everything smoother later on.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in onions and garlic. Sauté until onions turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in your chopped carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch. They should look vibrant and colorful.

Add Lentils and Broth : Now it’s time to introduce those magical lentils! Add them along with vegetable broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a rolling boil.

Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low after boiling. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy—just right!

Taste & Adjust Seasonings : Before serving, taste your masterpiece! Adjust salt or pepper as needed; remember those flavors develop even more while cooking.

Now take a moment to appreciate that beautiful bowl of lentil soup with carrots and celery you’ve just created! Each spoonful is not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor that delights both body and soul.

You Must Know

Lentil soup with carrots and celery is not just nutritious; it’s incredibly versatile
This dish smells heavenly while cooking, and the texture is wonderfully hearty, making it perfect for any occasion
Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; then add carrots and celery before the lentils. This ensures an aromatic base that enhances flavor and texture throughout the cooking process.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the carrots for sweet potatoes or try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. This can transform your lentil soup with carrots and celery into a unique dish every time.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lentil soup with carrots and celery in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain consistency.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance your lentil soup with carrots and celery, consider using homemade vegetable broth for richer flavor
Always rinse your lentils thoroughly to remove any debris before cooking
Lastly, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; it tastes even better the next day!

Sometimes I whip up this soup when I’m feeling under the weather; my friends swear it has magical healing powers. The smiles on their faces when they take a sip make everything worthwhile!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just remember to soak them ahead of time for better texture.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños during cooking for a delightful kick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Lentil soup with carrots and celery stores well and tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

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