Ah, the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of soup—there’s just something magical about it, isn’t there? Especially when it’s a Hearty Lentil Kale Soup, brimming with earthy flavors that warm you from the inside out. I remember last winter—maybe it was January, who knows, time blurs during the cold months—when a friend brought over a pot of this delightful concoction.
We sat by the window, watching fat snowflakes drift lazily to the ground, each spoonful a soothing counterpoint to the chill outside. Now, I’m no culinary wizard, but this soup makes me feel like one. It’s simple, nourishing, and somehow manages to combine the humble lentil and kale into a dish that feels a bit like a hug.
Or maybe a cozy blanket. You get the idea. Perfect for those days when you need a little extra warmth—and a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Steps
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Incorporate onions and cook until translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes, then add garlic, carrots, and celery for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the green lentils along with cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook with the vegetables for about 5 minutes to lightly toast the lentils.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and allow it to simmer on low for 30 minutes, ensuring the lentils are tender and the broth has thickened.
- Add the kale and continue to simmer until it wilts, which should take around 2 more minutes.
- Once the kale is wilted, remove the pot from the heat and serve the soup immediately.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup dried green lentils
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups chopped kale
Nutritional Values
Calories: 221kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1355mg | Potassium: 637mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 6146IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare Lentil Kale Soup in advance?
- Yes, this soup is ideal for preparing ahead of time and storing. You can make a large batch and freeze portions for later. Ensure the soup cools to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for four to five days and up to three months in the freezer. Reheat it either on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Which type of lentils work best for this soup?
- Green lentils are recommended for this soup as they maintain their shape during cooking. If you use red lentils, they may become mushy, so it’s best to reduce the cooking time. Green lentils can be added directly to the soup without pre-cooking.
- How do I adjust the soup’s thickness?
- For a thicker soup base, you can use an immersion blender to lightly blend the soup before adding the kale. This method will create a creamy texture while still leaving some vegetable chunks and whole lentils intact.
- Can I substitute kale with another leafy green?
- Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute kale with spinach or another leafy green of your choice. Just remember that kale doesn’t wilt as much as spinach, so chopping it finely helps incorporate it into the soup better.
- Are there any additional vegetables that can be added to the soup?
- Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables to the soup. While the recipe is delicious as is, additional vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
Tips
- Rinse and Sort Lentils: Be sure to sift through the lentils and rinse them thoroughly in a colander to remove any debris or tiny stones, ensuring a smooth eating experience.
- Finely Chop the Kale: Before adding kale to the soup, chop it finely. Although kale wilts in the hot broth, it doesn’t reduce as much as spinach, so smaller pieces will help integrate it into each spoonful more effectively.
- Check Lentil Cooking Times: Different types and brands of lentils may require varying cooking times. While the recipe suggests simmering for 30 minutes, it’s a good idea to check the package instructions and test the lentils by mashing one with a fork to ensure they are tender.
- Adjust Soup Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup base, consider using an immersion blender to lightly blend the soup before adding the kale. This will give the soup a creamier texture while still retaining some vegetable chunks and whole lentils.
Equipment
- Immersion Blender – Useful if you want to achieve a thicker soup base by lightly blending some of the ingredients.
- Large Pot – A deep pot is essential for cooking the soup, especially if you don’t have one large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
- Airtight Containers – For storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
