Serves : 4-6

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp. olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped carrot
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 pound lentils
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 2 quarts chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp. toasted cumin

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the olive oil into a large Dutch oven. Set over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the celery, onion, carrot, and salt. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, cumin, broth, and coriander. Stir to combine.
4. Increase the heat and bring the mixture just to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer on low until the lentils are tender, approximately 35 to 40 minutes.
6. If desired, puree the soup with a blender to your preferred consistency.
7. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious lentil soup!

ALLERGIES:

SF (Shellfish-Free)

GF (Gluten-Free)

DF (Dairy-Free)

EF (Egg-Free)

NF (Nut-Free)

VARIATIONS:

1. Vegetarian Lentil Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a hearty and delicious vegetarian version of the soup.
2. Spicy Lentil Soup: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for an extra kick of heat.
3. Curried Lentil Soup: Add a tablespoon of curry powder and a can of coconut milk to the soup for a rich and flavorful curry twist.
4. Mediterranean Lentil Soup: Add chopped roasted red peppers, Kalamata olives, and a handful of fresh chopped herbs like basil and parsley for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
5. Mexican Lentil Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, a teaspoon of chili powder, and a handful of chopped cilantro for a Mexican flair.
6. Italian Lentil Soup: Add some diced zucchini, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an Italian-inspired variation.
7. Lentil and Spinach Soup: Stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
8. Lentil and Sausage Soup: Brown some Italian sausage and add it to the soup for a heartier and meaty version.
9. Lentil and Bacon Soup: Cook some crispy bacon and crumble it over the soup before serving for a smoky and savory twist.
10. Coconut Lentil Soup: Substitute half of the broth with coconut milk and add some curry paste for a creamy and coconutty flavor.
11. Greek Lentil Soup: Add some chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
12. Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup: Add diced sweet potatoes and a pinch of cinnamon for a slightly sweet and comforting soup.
13. Lentil and Mushroom Soup: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and celery for a rich and earthy flavor.
14. Smoky Lentil Soup: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a couple of dashes of liquid smoke for a smoky and robust taste.
15. Lentil and Coconut Curry Soup: Create a fusion of flavors by adding curry spices, coconut milk, and a splash of lime juice.
16. Moroccan Lentil Soup: Add Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon for an exotic twist.
17. Lentil and Kale Soup: Stir in some chopped kale or other leafy greens for added nutrition and color.
18. Lentil and Potato Soup: Add diced potatoes for a heartier and more substantial soup.