Ingredients
2 cups (340g) brown or green lentils, picked and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups finely chopped onion (1 medium onion)
1 ½ cups chopped carrot (2 large carrots)
2 teaspoons minced garlic (3 cloves)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 heaping cups chopped kale or spinach
Juice of 1–2 lemons
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or dill), optional
Fine sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
- Stir in rinsed lentils and broth. Bring to a gentle boil and adjust salt as needed.
- Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 35–40 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Add kale or spinach and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired.
- Optional: Blend partially or fully for a creamy texture. Serve with lemon slices for garnish if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier soup without blending, add a small amount of coconut milk or cream at the end.
- Spices can be adjusted to your taste. Increase turmeric or cumin for a bolder flavor.
- This soup improves in flavor after a day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 50 min