Looking for a nutritious and delicious meal? Then, this healthy lentil soup is just what you need! Loaded with protein and fiber, lentils are fantastic for your body. This soup is also simple to prepare and bursting with fresh vegetables and spices. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, it’s a comforting dish that will keep you satisfied. Let’s explore this easy healthy vegan lentil soup recipe that’s perfect for everyone!
Cozy Healthy Vegan Lentil Soup
This lentil soup is a true winter favorite for me. On cold, rainy days, its comforting warmth is unbeatable. I found this recipe on the Minimalist Baker website about five years ago, and it has become my go-to ever since. Over time, I’ve enjoyed adjusting it to match my taste, turning it into one of my favorite dishes.
What really makes this soup special is the addition of King Oyster Mushrooms. They add a rich flavor that brings a new depth to the soup. It’s amazing how a small change can transform a dish, adding a delicious layer that enhances the entire eating experience.
Interestingly, even though my sister isn’t vegan or on a plant-based diet, this soup has become her favorite too. Its deliciousness goes beyond dietary choices. This shows how comforting and tasty the soup is for everyone.
Whether you enjoy it on a cozy night in or during a chilly winter day, it’s a dish that brings happiness to both plant-based eaters and non-vegans alike.
Nutritious and Delicious
This lentil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, combining many healthy ingredients that offer great health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the main ingredients:
Lentils: The main ingredient, providing plant-based protein, fiber, and important nutrients. They also help with blood sugar control and support heart health.
Kale: Boosts the soup with vitamins A, C, and K, which strengthen your immune system and promote good eye health.
King Oyster Mushrooms: Add antioxidants and essential vitamins, supporting both your immune system and bone health.
Carrots: Enhance the soup’s nutrition with beta-carotene for eye health.
Celery: Provides fiber, which aids digestion.
Onions: Add flavor and offer antioxidants that help regulate blood sugar.
Garlic: Enhances flavor and contributes additional health benefits.
Homemade Vegetable Broth: Infused with rosemary and thyme, it adds essential vitamins and minerals while keeping the soup low in calories.
Customize Your Soup
The real charm of this healthy vegan lentil soup recipe is its versatility. It’s not just about following a set of instructions; it’s about making it your own. You can adapt it to fit your taste and the ingredients you have on hand. Over time, I’ve personalized my version to make it feel uniquely mine.
You can also experiment with different vegetables like Swiss chard, kale, zucchini, or any mushrooms you have. So, if you have extra carrots, toss them in! If some spinach is about to wilt, that’s a great addition too. This adaptability helps reduce food waste and brings in a variety of flavors and nutrients.
The magic really happens when the soup simmers on the stove. The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. It’s a comforting blend of herbs, spices, and vegetables coming together in perfect harmony. It’s not just about the taste; it’s also about the whole experience—from the delightful smell to the first warm spoonful of goodness.
Healthy Vegan Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 4 stalks celery, sliced
- Homemade vegetable broth (approximately 8-10 cups)
- A bunch of kale, Swiss chard, or spinach, hand-separated
- 1 – 2 cups of King oyster mushrooms or any other, sliced
- 1/2 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil or vegetable broth for sautéing
- 1 1/2 tbsp salt or more (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- Few sprigs of fresh rosemary or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 2-3 cups yellow potatoes, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional to be added before serving)
Instructions
1. First, start by rinsing and draining the lentils thoroughly, then set them aside for later.
2. Next, in a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil or vegetable broth. Then, sauté the diced onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. After that, add the potatoes and mushrooms to the pot, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let them steam for about 5 minutes.
4. Once they have softened, pour in the vegetable broth, add rosemary and thyme, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. When it reaches a boil, add the rinsed lentils and bring it back to a boil. It may look like there’s too much broth at first, but keep in mind that the lentils will absorb the liquid as they cook, making the soup thicker..
6. Then, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season the soup with more salt and pepper to taste and add the kale. Then, simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to finish.
Warm Healthy Vegan Lentil Soup
This healthy vegan lentil soup is a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal. With its mix of lentils, vegetables, and flavorful broth, it provides many health benefits while warming you up on cold days. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you enjoy it fresh or reheat it later, each bowl is comforting and satisfying. So, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the tasty goodness in every spoonful!
Make sure to check out my easy recipe for Korean kimchi soup! It’s also warm and comforting, just like the lentil soup. Plus, it uses my homemade vegan kimchi for extra flavor.
