Name: Healthy Lentil and Potato Soup – Vegan & Gluten-Free!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: global
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 2 medium potatoes, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomatoes (fresh or canned); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp turmeric; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

This hearty and nutritious Lentil and Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for any time of year. Packed with protein-rich lentils, wholesome potatoes, and a medley of flavorful vegetables, this vegan and gluten-free soup is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a meal-prep-friendly dish, this soup is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutrient-Dense: Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup a filling and healthy choice.
Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions while still delivering on flavor.
Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples to create a delicious meal.
Great for Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Ingredients

Lentils (green or brown)
Potatoes
Carrots
Celery
Onion
Garlic
Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Vegetable broth
Olive oil
Bay leaves
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Turmeric
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the onions, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and chop the potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add the Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Incorporate the Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the lentils and tomatoes, stirring to coat them in the spices.
Pour in the Broth: Add vegetable broth and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency.
Extra Greens: Stir in spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?

Yes, but red lentils cook faster and break down more, resulting in a creamier soup rather than a chunky texture.

2. Do I need to soak the lentils beforehand?

No, lentils cook quickly and don’t require soaking, but rinsing them before cooking helps remove any debris.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding potatoes halfway through.

4. How can I make this soup oil-free?

Sauté the vegetables in a bit of vegetable broth instead of oil.

5. What type of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and add a creamy texture.

6. Can I add coconut milk for creaminess?

Yes, stirring in some coconut milk at the end will add a rich, creamy texture.

7. How do I make this soup more filling?

Serve with crusty bread or add cooked quinoa or rice.

8. Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time and add them in the last 10 minutes since they’re already cooked.

9. What herbs pair well with this soup?

Thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves enhance the flavor beautifully.

10. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

Conclusion

This Healthy Lentil and Potato Soup is a nutritious and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a warming meal on a chilly evening or a healthy, meal-prep-friendly recipe, this soup is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, delicious bowl of goodness!

Print