Thursday, 6 June 2019

How To Make Easy Lentil Soup From Scratch

By Sandra Anderson


One thing that people enjoy is a nice hearty warm meal to be able to relax and enjoy the flavor. Soups are a great way to attain this delight. There are many types that can be made, but one, in particular, is growing in popularity. Learning to make easy lentil soup from scratch is easy and provides a great source of protein and nutrition that will make you full.

Most soups are healthy. The various lentils are even more so. They usually consist of several different vegetables mixed into a broth. They can also be made in vegan varieties. This is easily done because most recipes do not call for any meat to be added. The beans themselves provide a great source of protein for the diet. These are recommended for people with health issues that prevent them from digesting meats. It is also great for diabetics that need a healthier diet.

Soaking lentils is not necessary before cooking. This issue is one of the most asked about them. Many different types of beans do require being pre-soaked in order to be soft enough to eat because typical cooking time will not soften them and will overcook the other ingredients in the stew. If you want them to be more easily digested, you can feel free to soak them. But, it is not necessary. It won't hurt them to do so.

Some prefer a thicker version while others like the vegetable soup version. It is easy to make the thicker version. You can just put the finished product into the blender. Be very careful about this since it may still be hot. It is best to let it cool a bit and make sure the lid is tight to prevent the hot liquid from splattering. Other people enjoy a thinner version where all the vegetables are still in their larger versions so they have the satisfaction of having something to bite into.

There are several healthy and basic ingredients to add to the mix. Along with the lentils, the basic recipes call for chopped celery, onions, diced carrots, oil, water, vinegar, oregano, basil, and a dry bay leaf for flavor. Adding in stewed or diced tomatoes helps thicken it up a bit while adding a nice red color. Some add spinach for the iron and other benefits.

Blending is an option. If you prefer a thicker version, you can take the warm dish and blend it. You need to be very careful since the liquid is hot and could easily burn you if it splatters. If you prefer the more chunky version, simply don't blend it. It'll be more like vegetable soup. This is a great version for adding oyster crackers or saltines to get a different flavor.

This can be used with many different side dishes. A fresh garden salad including croutons and a nice dressing really makes it great. Others may prefer a fresh batch of cornbread with honey and butter to flavor it up. Having these on the side make a whole delicious and nutritious meal.

Most people enjoy one kind of soup or another. Using lentils as a base will provide a tasty and healthy base for any snack or meal. Including a side bread for dipping makes it filling and provides a nice rounded meal. There are lots of versions from green to brown to red that can be made in a thick stew or vegetable soup type of dish.




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