Lentil soup is a testament to frugal cooking, embodying the essence of simplicity, nutrition, and affordability.
This classic recipe leverages lentils, one of the most cost-effective and nutrient-dense ingredients, to create a hearty, comforting meal that feels both nurturing and satisfying.
Perfect for any season, classic lentil soup is especially appreciated during colder months or whenever you seek a warm, homemade dish that’s easy on the wallet.
Classic Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, with juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon vinegar (red wine or apple cider) or lemon juice for brightness
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Estimated Total Cost: $5-$7
Cooking Directions
- Prepare Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Check for, and remove, any small stones or debris.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin, and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and a bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For added brightness, stir in a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
Why Make Classic Lentil Soup?
Lentil soup is a quintessential frugal recipe for several reasons.
- Lentils are incredibly affordable, offering a high yield for a low cost.
- They’re also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a nutritional powerhouse.
Furthermore, this recipe is adaptable; it can easily accommodate any additional vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for using up leftovers and reducing waste.
Lentil soup’s simplicity doesn’t detract from its flavor—the slow simmering process melds the ingredients into a rich, comforting broth that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Additional Savings & Hot Tips
- Bulk Purchase: Buying lentils and spices in bulk can further reduce the cost per serving.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables for variety and savings.
- Homemade Broth: Use homemade broth made from kitchen scraps for an even more cost-effective and flavorful base.
- Batch Cooking: Lentil soup freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for batch cooking and future meals.
- Versatility: Experiment with different types of lentils and spices to keep the recipe fresh and exciting.
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Final Thoughts
This Classic Lentil Soup recipe proves that frugal cooking can be deeply flavorful and nourishing. It’s a reminder that some of the best meals come from the simplest ingredients, offering warmth, comfort, and satisfaction without straining your budget.