Spiced Lentil Soup with Lemon and Herbs

This hearty and flavorful soup features lentils simmered in a rich and aromatic broth infused with warming spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It's a high-protein meal that's packed with fiber and bursting with Middle Eastern flavors, perfect for a cozy and satisfying dinner.

Great

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the diced tomatoes and lentils.

Step 5

Increase the heat to high and bring just to a boil.

Step 6

Taste then adjust with salt (we add between 1⁄2 and 1 teaspoon depending on how well seasoned the broth is).

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, until the lentils are tender, 35 to 40 minutes.

Step 8

Remove bay leaves.

Step 9

Thickening the Soup: Using a stick blender, do 2 or 3 quick whizzes to thicken the soup (see video below).

Step 10

Or transfer 2 cups to a blender, let it cool slightly, then hold lid with tea towel and blend then transfer back into pot.

Step 11

Add a touch of water if you want to adjust soup consistency.

Step 12

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 13

Grate over the zest of the lemon and add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Step 14

Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

Step 15

Tips:

Step 16

For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.

Step 17

You can also add other vegetables to this soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.

Step 18

If you don't have a stick blender, you can use a regular blender to puree the soup. Just be careful not to overfill the blender, or it could explode.