How To Make Easy Homemade Chicken Lentils Soup
Here are some tips to help you make the best lentil soup:
1. Choose the right lentils: Different varieties of lentils have different cooking times and textures. Brown and green lentils hold their shape well and are great for soups, while red and yellow lentils tend to break down and create a thicker consistency. Choose the type of lentils that you prefer for your soup.
2. Soak the lentils (optional): Soaking lentils before cooking can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. If you have the time, you can soak the lentils in water for a few hours or overnight before using them in the soup. However, it's not necessary, and you can cook them without soaking as well.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Sautéing the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in the beginning adds depth of flavor to the soup. Make sure to cook them until they are softened and aromatic before adding the lentils and broth.
4. Use homemade broth if possible: If you have the time and resources, using homemade vegetable or chicken broth can enhance the taste of the lentil soup. However, store-bought broth works perfectly fine as well.
5. Season and spice it up: Lentils have a mild flavor, so adding spices and herbs is essential to elevate the taste of the soup. Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, or chili powder to add depth and warmth. Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme can provide a fresh and aromatic touch.
6. Don't overcook the lentils: While you want the lentils to be tender, be careful not to overcook them, as they can turn mushy. Keep an eye on them during the cooking process and taste them periodically to ensure they are cooked but still have a slight bite.
7. Add texture and variety: Lentil soup can be customized with additional vegetables, such as diced tomatoes, potatoes, leafy greens, or bell peppers, to add more texture and flavor. You can also incorporate cooked proteins like chicken or sausage to make it a heartier meal.
8. Allow flavors to meld: After cooking the soup, let it sit for a few minutes or even a couple of hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a more harmonious taste.
9. Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the cooked lentils and vegetables using an immersion blender or regular blender. This will give the soup a creamier texture while still maintaining some whole lentils for added texture.
10. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of yogurt: Just before serving, a splash of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt on top can brighten the flavors and add a tangy element to the lentil soup.
Remember, lentil soup is quite forgiving, and you can adjust the seasonings and ingredients according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Ingredients to Lentils Soup
To make a basic lentil soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- - 1 cup dried lentils (any variety such as brown, green, red, or yellow)
- - 1 onion, diced
- - 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- - 1 carrot, diced
- - 1 celery stalk, diced
- - 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (you can also use water)
- - 1 bay leaf
- - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- - Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
These ingredients form the base of the lentil soup, and you can customize it by adding other vegetables, spices, or even proteins like diced tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, or cooked chicken. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you want to make.
Note: Before cooking, rinse the lentils thoroughly and remove any debris or stones that may be present.
How to make Lentils Soup
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make lentil soup:
1. Rinse the lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils in a colander under cold water. Remove any debris or stones that may be present. Set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
3. Add the lentils and spices: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the bay leaf, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Stir well to coat the lentils and vegetables with the spices.
4. Pour in the broth: Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. You can also use water if you prefer. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lentils are tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of lentils used.
6. Season and adjust: Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Adjust the spices if needed.
7. Optional additions: If you'd like to add extra vegetables or proteins, this is the time to do it. You can stir in diced tomatoes, cooked potatoes, spinach, or cooked chicken. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve: Ladle the lentil soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Lentil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, and the flavors often develop and improve over time. It also freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and save some for later.
Popular substitutions & additions
Popular substitutions & additionsHere's a step-by-step guide on how to make lentil soup:
Lentil soup is a versatile dish that can be customized with various substitutions and additions to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some popular substitutions and additions you can consider:
Substitutions:
1. Lentils: If you don't have lentils on hand or prefer a different legume, you can substitute them with other legumes like split peas, chickpeas, black beans, or kidney beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
2. Broth: Instead of using vegetable or chicken broth, you can substitute with other types of broth such as beef broth or mushroom broth for added flavor.
3. Aromatics: While onion and garlic are commonly used aromatics, you can substitute or add other vegetables like leeks or shallots to impart different flavors.
4. Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and spice blends. For example, you can replace cumin and coriander with curry powder, garam masala, or Italian seasoning to give your lentil soup a unique twist.
Additions:
1. Vegetables: Besides the basic carrot and celery, you can add a variety of vegetables to your lentil soup. Some popular options include diced tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes, or leafy greens like spinach or kale.
2. Protein: To make the soup heartier and more filling, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, sausage, or bacon. Alternatively, you can incorporate plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.
3. Herbs and garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill can add a burst of freshness to your lentil soup. Additionally, you can top the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of grated cheese, a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
4. Grains: To make the soup more substantial, you can add cooked grains like rice, quinoa, or barley. They will not only enhance the texture but also contribute to the overall nutritional value.
5. Heat: If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to give your lentil soup a kick. Adjust the amount of heat according to your preference.
Remember, these substitutions and additions are not exhaustive, and you can get creative with your lentil soup recipe. Feel free to experiment and tailor the ingredients to your liking for a truly personalized and delicious meal.
What to serve with Lentils Soup
Lentil soup is a satisfying and nourishing dish on its own, but if you want to complement it with additional flavors and textures, here are some ideas for what to serve with lentil soup:
1. Bread: Crusty bread, such as a baguette or artisanal loaf, is a classic accompaniment to lentil soup. It's perfect for dipping into the soup or savoring alongside each spoonful. You can also serve bread rolls or naan bread.
2. Salad: A fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty lentil soup. Consider serving a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
3. Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt or Greek yogurt on top of the lentil soup can add a creamy and tangy element to the dish. It balances the flavors and provides a cool contrast.
4. Rice or grains: Serve the lentil soup over a bed of cooked rice, quinoa, or another grain of your choice. This adds more substance to the meal and creates a satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
5. Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables make a delicious side dish to accompany lentil soup. You can roast vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful and nutritious addition.
6. Sautéed greens: Sautéed greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can be served alongside the lentil soup. Lightly cook them in olive oil or butter with garlic and season with salt and pepper.
7. Herbed croutons: Make homemade croutons by cubing bread, tossing it with olive oil, herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano), and a pinch of salt and baking until crispy. These croutons can be sprinkled on top of the lentil soup for added crunch and flavor.
8. Pickles or chutney: Pickles or chutneys, such as mango chutney or lime pickles, can provide a tangy and sweet contrast to the earthy flavors of the lentil soup. Serve them as a condiment on the side.
Remember, the choice of accompaniments depends on your personal preferences and the overall meal you want to create. Feel free to mix and match different options to create a balanced and satisfying meal with your lentil soup as the star.
How to store & reheat Lentils Soup
To store and reheat lentil soup, follow these guidelines:
1. Storage: Allow the lentil soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container or divide it into individual portions if desired. Refrigerate the soup within 2 hours of cooking to ensure food safety.
2. Refrigeration: Lentil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. Make sure to label the container with the date for reference.
3. Freezing: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. Seal tightly and label with the date. Frozen lentil soup can typically be kept for 2 to 3 months.
4. Reheating: When reheating lentil soup, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave:
- Stovetop: Transfer the desired portion of soup to a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through. If the soup appears too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
- Microwave: Place the desired portion of soup in a microwave-safe container. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or use microwave-safe plastic wrap with a few vents for steam to escape. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Microwaves vary in power, so adjust the heating time as needed.
5. Stir and taste: Once the soup is reheated, give it a good stir to distribute the heat evenly. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add a little water or broth to thin it out if needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the reheated lentil soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or any additional toppings you prefer.
Remember to discard any leftover soup that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Reheated lentil soup may thicken slightly as the lentils continue to absorb liquid, so adjust the consistency with water or broth as desired.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Are lentils soup healthy?
A: Yes, lentil soup is generally considered a healthy dish. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are also low in fat and cholesterol. Lentil soup can be a nutritious and filling meal option.
Q2: Can I freeze lentil soup?
A: Yes, lentil soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q3: Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
A: Yes, you can use canned lentils as a time-saving option. Rinse and drain the canned lentils before adding them to the soup. Keep in mind that canned lentils are already cooked, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q4: Can I make lentil soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, lentil soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until the lentils are tender. Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker's settings and the type of lentils used.
Q5: Can I add meat or poultry to lentil soup?
A: Yes, you can add cooked meat or poultry to lentil soup if desired. Diced cooked chicken, turkey, sausage, or even leftover roasted meat can be added to the soup to enhance the flavor and provide additional protein.
Q6: Can I make lentil soup without using onions and garlic?
A: Yes, if you prefer to omit onions and garlic from your lentil soup, you can do so. You can increase the amount of other aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks to add flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with other herbs, spices, or flavorings to enhance the taste of the soup.
Q7: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in lentil soup?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make lentil soup. Vegetable broth provides a vegetarian or vegan option while still adding flavor to the soup. You can also use water if you prefer.
Q8: Can I customize the spices in lentil soup?
A: Absolutely! Lentil soup is a versatile dish, and you can customize the spices according to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different spices like turmeric, paprika, curry powder, or herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to add different flavors to the soup.
Q9: Can I add other vegetables to lentil soup?
A: Yes, lentil soup can be customized with various vegetables. You can add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes, spinach, or kale to the soup for added texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment and include your favorite vegetables.
Q10: Is lentil soup gluten-free?
A: Lentils are naturally gluten-free, so lentil soup can be gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients and avoid adding any gluten-containing ingredients like wheat-based thickeners or additives. Always double-check the labels of packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free if you have specific dietary needs.
Nutrition
Lentil soup is a nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. Here is some information about the nutrition content of lentil soup:
1. Calories: The calorie content of lentil soup can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. On average, a serving of lentil soup (about 1 cup or 240 ml) can provide approximately 150-250 calories.
2. Protein: Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein. A serving of lentil soup typically contains around 10-15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall health.
3. Fiber: Lentils are rich in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels. A serving of lentil soup can provide 6-8 grams of dietary fiber, contributing to your daily fiber needs.
4. Carbohydrates: Lentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy. A serving of lentil soup may contain around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, including dietary fiber and naturally occurring sugars.
5. Fat: Lentils are low in fat, and lentil soup is generally a low-fat dish. The exact fat content can vary depending on the cooking method and added ingredients. Most of the fat in lentil soup comes from any added oils or fats used during cooking.
6. Vitamins and Minerals: Lentil soup is a good source of various vitamins and minerals. Lentils contain important nutrients such as iron, folate, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6. The exact nutrient profile will depend on the specific ingredients used in the soup.
It's important to note that the exact nutrition content can vary based on the recipe and variations in ingredients. If you have specific dietary needs or are following a particular diet, it's always a good idea to check the specific nutritional information for the recipe you are using or consult with a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
