Red lentil soup is both delicious and nutritious, and it is quite simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- Red lentil
- Onion
- Carrots (optional)
- Potato (optional)
- Garlic (optional)
- Tomato paste (tomato or pepper paste)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper (chili pepper)
- Cumin
- Water or vegetable broth (optionally, broth can also be used)
As a first step, thoroughly wash and drain a certain amount of red lentils. Then, place a sufficient amount of water in a pot and add the washed lentils. Cook on medium heat until the lentils have softened. In the meantime, finely chop an onion and add it to the lentils. (If you want to add potato, carrot etc, you can add them right here.)
To enhance the flavor of the soup, add tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cumin to the pot. Stir all the ingredients together, checking the consistency and taste of the soup. While the spices add a nice aroma, the onion and tomato paste provide a deep flavor. Continue cooking until the lentils have completely softened and the soup has reached your desired consistency. Adjust the water if necessary.
Serve your soup hot when it’s ready. This simple and satisfying recipe will warm you up, especially on cold winter days.
Red lentil soup has many health benefits. Here are some benefits of this nutritious soup:
High Source of Protein: Red lentils are rich in vegetable protein. With this feature, it is an excellent source of protein, especially for vegetarian and vegan diets. It helps protect and repair muscle structure.
Contains Dietary Fiber: Thanks to its high fiber content, it supports the digestive system, regulates bowel movements, and provides a long-term feeling of fullness. These features also contribute to weight management.
Supports Heart Health: Red lentils are rich in magnesium and folate, which support heart health. It helps regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Source of Iron: Iron increases the body’s oxygen-carrying capacity. Red lentils are an important source of iron and can increase energy levels, especially for those who do not consume meat.
Rich in Antioxidants: Antioxidants found in red lentils protect the body against free radicals and reduce the risk of inflammation. These features support general health.
Helps Balance Blood Sugar: Thanks to slowly digested carbohydrates and high fiber content, red lentils help balance blood sugar. This feature may be useful in diabetes management.
Easy to Prepare and Economical: Red lentil soup can be easily prepared with few ingredients and is low in cost. It is ideal for those looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
This soup is a delicacy that should be on your tables frequently with its nutritional values and health benefits. Red lentil soup is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and delicious option.
