Servings :6

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup dry lentils
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• Few tomatoes
• 1 medium potato, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped carrot
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
• Few sprigs of parsley and basil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 pound of cubed lean pork or beef
• Pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain them.
2. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the lentils and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. While the lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the tomatoes, potato, carrot, onion, and celery (if using). Mince the garlic.
4. In a separate skillet or pan, cook the cubed lean pork or beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Once the lentils are cooked, add the chopped vegetables, parsley, basil, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Continue to simmer the soup until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Add the cooked pork or beef to the soup and stir.
8. Adjust the seasoning with additional pepper or salt, if needed.
9. Serve the lentil and vegetable soup hot in individual bowls.
10. Optionally, divide the soup into two servings – one for immediate consumption and the other for freezing. Allow the extra portion to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Enjoy your hearty and nutritious lentil and vegetable soup!

ALLERGIES:

SF (Shellfish-Free)

GF (Gluten-Free)

DF (Dairy-Free)

EF (Egg-Free)

NF (Nut-Free)

Here are some variations of the lentil and vegetable soup recipe:

Vegetarian Lentil Soup:

• Omit the cubed lean pork or beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more flavor and nutrients.

Spiced Lentil Soup:

• Add spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to give the soup a warm and aromatic twist. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Curried Lentil Soup:

• Create a curry-inspired lentil soup by adding curry powder, garam masala, and a splash of coconut milk or yogurt. Top with fresh cilantro before serving.

Mediterranean Lentil Soup:

• Add a Mediterranean flair by incorporating chopped roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh oregano.

Moroccan Lentil Soup:

• Enhance the soup with Moroccan spices like cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and paprika. Add dried apricots or raisins for a touch of sweetness and top with toasted almonds.

Mexican Lentil Soup:

• Give the soup a Mexican twist by adding diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, and chili powder. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh cilantro.

Italian Lentil Soup:

• Use diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and basil for an Italian-inspired lentil soup. You can also add chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Asian-inspired Lentil Soup:

• Incorporate Asian flavors with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Add sliced shiitake mushrooms and bok choy for an extra depth of taste.

Greek Lentil Soup (Fakorizo):

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Serve with crumbled feta cheese on top.