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My kitchen fills with the most amazing aromas when this lentil soup simmers away in the crockpot. One chilly afternoon I tossed these ingredients together and now it's become my favorite comfort food. This soup warms your soul with every spoonful while keeping things light and healthy.
A Bowl of Pure Comfort
Some recipes become lifesavers and this is definitely one of them. I pop everything in the crockpot before work and come home to dinner practically made. The house smells incredible and that first taste tells you something magical happened while you were away.
What Goes In The Pot
- Lentils: 1 cup creates the perfect hearty base.
- Carrots: 2 fresh ones diced up add natural sweetness.
- Celery: 2 stalks bring that fresh crunch.
- Onion: 1 medium builds our flavor foundation.
- Garlic: 3 cloves because everything needs garlic.
- Tomatoes: 1 can gives us that rich base.
- Veggie Broth: 4 cups of goodness.
- Spinach: 2 cups for color and nutrients.
- Spices: The magic trio cumin coriander and paprika.
- Lemon: 2 tbsp juice brightens everything up.
Let's Get Cooking
- Prep Time
- Chop those veggies give the lentils a good rinse.
- Fill The Pot
- Everything goes in except spinach and lemon we save those for later.
- Walk Away
- Let it cook low and slow about 6 hours of magic.
- Make It Creamy
- My immersion blender transforms half into silky smoothness.
- Final Touches
- Stir in that fresh spinach squeeze in lemon pure perfection.
- Time to Eat
- Grab your favorite bowl and some crusty bread.
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Perfect Pairings
Nothing beats dunking warm crusty bread into this soup. Sometimes I make quick garlic bread or grab fresh naan from the store. A simple side salad makes it a complete meal.
Make It Perfect
Always rinse those lentils first learned that one the hard way. Play with the spices until they sing to you. Fresh spinach works best but kale is amazing too just needs a few extra minutes to soften.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I toss in diced sweet potatoes or zucchini. A dash of coconut milk makes it creamy and dreamy. When I want heat red pepper flakes do the trick.
Keep It Fresh
This soup gets even better after a day or two in the fridge. I freeze portions in mason jars for busy weeks ahead. Just leave room at the top for expansion.
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Meal Prep Magic
Sunday soup making sets me up for the week ahead. I portion it into containers grab one each morning and lunch is sorted. No more sad desk lunches.
Pure Comfort
This soup never fails to make a rough day better. Its warm spices and hearty texture feel like a big hug in a bowl. Plus knowing its packed with goodness makes me feel amazing.
Your Soup Your Rules
Make this recipe your own. More spice less spice chunky or smooth. Sometimes I blend it all for my kiddo who thinks she doesn't like lentils spoiler she loves this soup.
Good For You Goodness
This soup fills you up without weighing you down. Full of protein fiber and veggies it's comfort food you can feel great about. Perfect for those days when you need something wholesome and delicious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why rinse lentils?
Removes debris and dirt. Important step for food safety and proper cooking.
- → Why blend half the soup?
Creates creamy texture while maintaining some whole lentils and vegetables.
- → When do I add spinach?
Add at end of cooking, stir until just wilted to maintain nutrients.
- → Why add lemon juice?
Brightens flavors and adds fresh tang to finished soup.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, flavors develop well. Reheat gently and add spinach when serving.
Conclusion
A detailed exploration of creating a nutritious vegan lentil soup using a slow cooker, highlighting easy preparation techniques and flavor-building strategies.