This Easy Lentil Potato Soup is a warm and comforting dish packed with tasty lentils and soft potatoes. It’s perfect for a chilly day and super simple to make!
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of soup? I love how it fills you up without making you feel heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils: Brown or green lentils work best for this soup as they hold their shape well. If you need a quicker option, red lentils can be used, but they’ll break down more and give a creamier texture.
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor. If you prefer, russets are a great choice too. Sweet potatoes could also be a delicious substitute for a different sweetness!
Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth is my favorite, but store-bought works just fine. You can swap it for water if you’re in a pinch; just add extra herbs for flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great nutrition. You could use kale or swiss chard instead, just chop them a bit smaller to cook evenly.
Spices: Ground cumin gives a warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use curry powder or Italian seasoning for a different profile.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Onions and Garlic?
Starting with sautéed onions and garlic makes a huge difference. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to cook them gently. This allows the sugars to caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Keep an eye on them; you want them lightly golden, not burnt. Stir occasionally for even cooking!
- Adding a pinch of salt during sautéing helps draw out moisture and boosts flavor.
Easy Lentil Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley or coriander (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, making a total time of around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, filling meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Then, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and smell amazing.
2. Add Veggies:
Next, toss in the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir them into the onions and garlic so they mix well. Cook for another 3 minutes to let them start softening.
3. Stir in Lentils and Spices:
Now it’s time to add your rinsed lentils, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and bay leaf. Mix everything together so that the lentils and veggies are nicely coated in the spices.
4. Add Liquid:
Pour in the vegetable broth or water, making sure that all the ingredients are covered. Turn the heat up and bring everything to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Once it’s boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Stir it occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. Your soup is ready when the lentils and potatoes are nice and tender!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly in the hot soup.
7. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Serve it hot! You can sprinkle some chopped parsley or coriander on top for extra flavor if you like and enjoy it with some crusty bread!
This delicious and hearty lentil potato soup is not only simple to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Can I Use Canned Lentils Instead of Dried Lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time! Just rinse and drain them before adding to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This way, they’ll heat through without getting mushy.
What Should I Do if My Soup is Too Thick?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a little more vegetable broth or water, stir it well, and let it simmer for a few more minutes to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Soup?
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar just before serving. Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves while cooking can also enhance the flavor profile. You can experiment with your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours!