VEGAN LENTIL SOUP RECIPE
Vegan Lentil Soup is a nutritious and filling option for Indian weight loss. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied and promote healthy digestion. This soup is also low in fat and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside.
In a large pot, heat some oil or water over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic, cumin powder, turmeric powder, paprika, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir and cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency. Alternatively, you can leave the soup as is for a chunky texture.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon for a tangy flavor.
Serve the Vegan Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
TIPS
Soak the lentils: If you have time, you can soak the lentils for a few hours before cooking. Soaking can help improve their digestibility and reduce cooking time.
Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced tomatoes, spinach, or kale, to increase the nutrient content. This will also add more flavor and texture to the soup.
Spice it up: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy spicier flavors, you can add chili powder or red pepper flakes to give the soup a kick.
Meal prep and freezing: Lentil soup is a great option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for several days or freeze individual portions for later use. Just reheat the soup when ready to enjoy.
Serve with whole grains: For a more filling meal, serve the Vegan Lentil Soup with a side of whole grains like brown rice or quinoa. This will add additional nutrients and fiber to your meal.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories (depending on the portion size and ingredients used)
- Protein: 12-15 grams
- Fat: 2-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Fiber: 10-12 grams