Ever found yourself craving something hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious? That’s me almost every chilly evening! So today, let’s talk about a recipe that ticks all those boxes – the white bean lentil soup. Trust me, it’s not just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl!
White Bean Lentil Soup Recipe Overview
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: Global
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Equipment Needed
You won’t need a kitchen full of gadgets for this recipe, just a few basics:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Blender or immersion blender
Ingredients for White Bean Lentil Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White beans (canned) | 2 cups, drained |
| Brown lentils | 1 cup |
| Vegetable broth | 6 cups |
| Carrots | 2, diced |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Thyme (dried) | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Step by Step Instructions
Gathering Ingredients
- Start by preparing all your ingredients as listed above to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Sauté the Basics
- Set the big pot on medium heat and add the olive oil. Cut up the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery and add them. Sauté them until they are slightly softened and the onions become translucent. This foundational step infuses the oil with a flavor base that carries through the entire dish.
“Sautéing the vegetables slowly releases their natural sugars, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.”
Simmering the Soup
- Add the brown lentils, white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow it to simmer gently.
- Let the soup cook uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
“Allowing the soup to simmer slowly melds the flavors together beautifully.”
Final Touches
- Take the bay leaves out of the soup and stir it well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
Additional Tips For Perfect Lentil Soup
- For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking.
- If the soup is too thick, keep adding broth or water until it’s the right consistency.
Lentil Soup is Best Served With:
This white bean lentil soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad. Here are some ideal companions:
- Crusty Bread: ideal for dipping and enjoying every last drop!
- Green Salad: A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the hearty nature of the soup.
Nutrition in White Bean Lentil Soup
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fiber | 15 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
“These values are approximate. Always consult with a nutrition expert if you need precise data.”
What Makes White Bean Lentil Soup Delicious
This soup’s magic lies in its ingredients’ simplicity and slow cooking method, which enhances all the flavors and textures beautifully. It’s a nutritious dish that doesn’t skimp on taste or satisfaction.
FAQs About White Bean Lentil Soup
Can I use dried white beans instead of canned ones?
Yes, you can use dry beans, but remember to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just cool it completely and store it in freezer-safe containers.
How can I make this soup more protein-packed?
Consider adding chunks of chicken or turkey for an even more substantial dish.
Can I prepare this soup in the slow cooker?
Yes, add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What are some vegan protein options for this soup?
Adding cubed tofu or tempeh can be a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into this already hearty soup.
Conclusion
This white bean lentil soup recipe is more than just food; it’s comfort, health, and joy all simmered into one delicious pot. Give it a try and see just how satisfying a bowl of soup can be!
Feel free to talk about this recipe, ask questions, or give feedback. I love hearing from you all and am excited to see how your soups turn out!
Check out some more delicious soup recipes:
- Zuppa Toscana Soup Recipe
- La Madeleine Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Rafferty’s Potato Soup: A Delicious Journey
- Medieval Times Tomato Bisque Recipe
- Bill Millers Soup Recipe: A Flavorful Delight
- Longhorn French Onion Soup Recipe: A Delightful Twist
White Bean Lentil Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Blender or immersion blender
Ingredients
- 2 cups drained White beans (canned)
- 1 cup Brown lentils
- 6 cups Vegetable broth
- 2 diced Carrots
- 2 stalks diced Celery
- 1 large chopped Onion
- 3 cloves minced Garlic
- 1 tsp Thyme dried
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- To taste Salt
- To taste Pepper
Instructions
Gathering Ingredients
- Start by preparing all your ingredients as listed above to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Sauté the Basics
- Set the big pot on medium heat and add the olive oil. Cut up the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery and add them. Sauté them until they are slightly softened and the onions become translucent. This foundational step infuses the oil with a flavor base that carries through the entire dish.
Simmering the Soup
- Add the brown lentils, white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow it to simmer gently.
- Let the soup cook uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
Final Touches
- Take the bay leaves out of the soup and stir it well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
Notes
- For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking.
- If the soup is too thick, keep adding broth or water until it’s the right consistency.
