Easy Crockpot Lentil Soup
Warm, comforting, and brimming with wholesome goodness, our Easy Crockpot Lentil Soup is a true culinary masterpiece. This recipe brings together the earthy richness of lentils, the aromatic symphony of onion, garlic, celery, and carrots, and a blend of fragrant spices. Slow-cooked in a harmonious union of cumin and thyme, and simmered in a velvety bath of chicken stock and creamy coconut milk, this soup is a celebration of flavor and nourishment. Join us on a journey to discover how simplicity and a few humble ingredients can transform into a bowl of heartwarming delight.
simple INGREDIENTS you’ll need:
- Lentils (16 oz, dry): A hearty base packed with protein and fiber, giving the soup a rich, earthy flavor and satisfying texture.
- Large Onion (1, diced): Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the soup as it softens and melds with other ingredients.
- Carrots (4 medium, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and color to the soup while enhancing its nutritious profile.
- Celery Stalks (4, chopped): Adds a subtle, fresh flavor and slight crunch, balancing the texture and flavor of the soup.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic essence that pairs perfectly with the earthy lentils.
- Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp): Adds a hint of woodsy flavor that complements the other seasonings in the soup.
- Tomato Paste (3 oz, about 1/2 the can): Provides a concentrated tomato flavor, adding depth and richness to the broth.
- Cumin (1 tsp): Adds a warm, slightly nutty flavor that enhances the heartiness of the lentils.
- Bay Leaves (2): Infuses a subtle, herbal fragrance, adding complexity to the broth as it simmers.
- Chicken Stock (8 cups): Creates the base of the soup, adding savory depth and richness; can be substituted with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Coconut Milk (1 cup): Adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor, balancing the spices and adding a rich texture to the soup.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, making the soup well-rounded.
- Black Pepper (to taste): Adds a touch of heat and spice to balance the sweetness and richness of the soup.
HOW TO prepare slow cooker/CROCKPOT LENTIL SOUP?
Time needed: 4 hours and 15 minutes
- Rinse Lentils:
Begin by rinsing the dry lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Drain well and set aside. - Prepare Vegetables:
Dice one large onion, chop four medium carrots, and chop four celery stalks. Mince four cloves of garlic. These aromatic vegetables will form the flavorful base of the soup. - Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
In a large crockpot or slow cooker, add the rinsed lentils, diced onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, tomato paste, ground cumin, and bay leaves. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
Pour eight cups of chicken stock into the crockpot, ensuring that all the ingredients are fully submerged in the liquid. The chicken stock will provide a rich and savory base for the soup.
- Cook on Low Heat:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the soup on low heat for 4 hours, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Cooking the soup slowly allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully. - Add Coconut Milk
Add Coconut Milk: About 30 minutes before the soup is done cooking, stir in one cup of coconut milk. This creamy addition adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing its overall texture and flavor. - Blend the Soup:
OPTIONAL STEP: Using a high-powered professional blender or immersion blender; blend half the soup. As a result, this will make the soup creamier and also leave chunks for texture. - Season to Taste:
Season the soup with one teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the soup is cooked to perfection, discard the bay leaves and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Why should you be eating more lentils?
People should be eating lentils for their remarkable nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, lentils offer a wholesome and plant-based source of nutrition. Additionally, lentils are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads, curries, and even meatless burgers. Their affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to absorb flavors make them an ideal ingredient for anyone looking to add more plant-based foods to their diet or seeking nutritious alternatives to meat-centric meals. By including lentils in your diet, you will reap numerous health benefits these legumes have to offer.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Lentils typically do not require soaking before cooking, but some recipes may recommend rinsing them thoroughly to remove any debris.
To prevent lentils from becoming overly mushy. It’s best to simmer lentils gently until they are tender and still hold their shape.
Different types of lentils, such as green lentils, brown lentils, red lentils, and French lentils, have varying cooking times and textures. While they can often be used interchangeably in recipes, it’s essential to adjust cooking times accordingly.
If lentil soup is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a thicker consistency. You can also use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup. Combine 1 tbsp cornstarch to 3 tbsp cold water and add to the soup.
EASY LENTIL RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS:
- Vegetable Stock for Chicken Stock: Swap chicken stock with vegetable stock to make the soup fully vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
- Red Lentils or Green Lentils: Use red lentils for a quicker-cooking, softer texture, or green lentils for a firmer, slightly peppery bite.
- Spinach or Kale: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or chopped kale at the end for added greens and nutrients.
- Sweet Potatoes or Regular Potatoes: Replace or add to the carrots and celery with diced sweet potatoes or regular potatoes for extra heartiness and flavor.
- Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, curry powder for warmth, or fresh thyme and rosemary for a more herbaceous taste.
- Coconut Cream for Coconut Milk: Substitute with coconut cream for a thicker, richer broth, or leave out entirely for a lighter soup.
WHAT DO YOU SERVE WITH SLOW COOKER LENTILS?
When serving slow cooker lentil soup, common side dishes complement the main dish while providing additional variety to the meal. Crusty bread, such as baguette slices or dinner rolls is perfect for dipping into the soup or soaking up its flavorful broth. A simple green salad with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast and a burst of color to the meal. For a more substantial side, consider serving cooked grains such as rice, quinoa, or couscous, which can be enjoyed alongside the soup or stirred directly into it for added heartiness. These side dishes complement the flavors of the lentil soup and provide a balanced meal that pleases the entire family.
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER LENTIL soup?
Slow cooker lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it ideal for cooking on the weekend and serving throughout the week. In addition, it freezes easily for up to 3 months. Make sure you thaw the lentil soup in the refrigerator overnight before trying to reheat. Then you can gently reheat it on the stove over low heat until the soup begins to bubble.
CAN LEFTOVER SOUP BE FROZEN FOR LATER CONSUMPTION?
Yes, it is possible to freeze leftover crockpot lentil soup for later consumption. Freezing lentils is a convenient way to preserve a meal for the future. To freeze leftover lentil soup, first, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. Stored properly, the lentil soup can be frozen for up to 3-4 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Remember to stir the soup during reheating to ensure even warming.
CRAVING MORE SOUP RECIPES? TRY THESE!
Rich and Creamy Roasted Tomato Garlic Soup: This soup is all about warm, roasted tomatoes blended with savory garlic into a velvety, smooth texture that’s perfect for chilly days.
Italian Wedding Soup: The ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender meatballs, hearty greens, and delicate pasta in a rich, flavorful broth.
Quick and Easy Cabbage Roll Soup: This hearty and flavorful soup brings together the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in a convenient one-pot dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Easy Crockpot Lentil Soup
Equipment
- Slow Cooker/Crockpot
Ingredients
- 1 (16oz) Lentils (dry)
- 1 Large Onion (diced)
- 4 Medium Carrots (chopped)
- 4 Celery Stalks (chopped)
- 4 Cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 Tsp Dried Thyme
- 3 oz Tomato Paste (about 1/2 the can)
- 1 Tsp Cumin
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 8 Cups Chicken Stock
- 1 Cup Coconut Milk
- 1 Tsp Salt
- Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Rinse Lentils: Begin by rinsing the dry lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables: Dice one large onion, chop four medium carrots, and chop four celery stalks. Mince four cloves of garlic. These aromatic vegetables will form the flavorful base of the soup.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: In a large crockpot or slow cooker, add the rinsed lentils, diced onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, tomato paste, ground cumin, and bay leaves. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Add Chicken Stock: Pour eight cups of chicken stock into the crockpot, ensuring that all the ingredients are fully submerged in the liquid. The chicken stock will provide a rich and savory base for the soup.
- Cook on Low Heat: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the soup on low heat for 4 hours, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Cooking the soup slowly allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.
- Add Coconut Milk: About 30 minutes before the soup is done cooking, stir in one cup of coconut milk. This creamy addition adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing its overall texture and flavor.
- Optional Step: Using a high-powered professional blender or immersion blender; blend half the soup. As a result, this will make the soup creamier and also leave chunks for texture.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with one teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is cooked to perfection, discard the bay leaves and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of coconut milk, or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for a cozy and satisfying meal.
- With its wholesome ingredients and aromatic spices, this Easy Crockpot Lentil Soup is sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds with every comforting spoonful.