Easy Slow Cooker Lentil Soup Recipe

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by deliciouscorner

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Catch a whiff of this magical concoction—slow cooker lentil soup bubbling away like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The earthy aroma of spices mingles with the rich scent of simmering lentils, creating an irresistible invitation to cozy up with a bowlful. Each spoonful offers a delightful medley of flavors that dance on your palate, making it hard to resist going back for seconds—or thirds!

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This recipe holds a special place in my heart. Picture this: a rainy Sunday afternoon filled with laughter as family members gather around the kitchen table. We enjoyed this hearty dish while swapping stories and sharing giggles. It’s truly the ultimate comfort food for any occasion, promising warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This slow cooker lentil soup is not just easy to make; it’s bursting with flavor that satisfies your taste buds
  • You can customize ingredients based on dietary needs or what you have available
  • The vibrant colors and rich aromas make it visually appealing and inviting
  • Perfect for meal prep but versatile enough for family gatherings or cozy nights in

I vividly remember the first time I made this soup; my family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Lentils: Use brown or green lentils; they hold their shape well during cooking.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and crunch; chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
  • Celery: Celery enhances the flavor base; use fresh stalks for maximum impact.
  • Onion: Dice a medium onion to add aroma; sautéing will bring out its natural sweetness.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give depth; crush them to release more flavor.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for acidity; they brighten up the overall flavor profile.
  • Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding richness.
  • Seasonings: Include thyme, cumin, and bay leaves; these herbs create an aromatic experience.
  • Spinach or Kale: Add greens at the end for extra nutrients and color; they wilt beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping all vegetables like carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into small pieces. Gather your spices and lentils nearby before starting.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until translucent and aromatic—about 5 minutes—and then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Transfer sautéed onions and garlic into your slow cooker. Add carrots, celery, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, lentils, thyme, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Set it Up: Cover the slow cooker with its lid; cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until lentils are tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Greens: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped spinach or kale until wilted and vibrant—this adds nutrition along with a pop of color.

Taste Test: Before serving, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning if needed with additional salt or pepper to suit your preference.

Now you have a comforting bowl of slow cooker lentil soup ready to be savored! Enjoy each mouthful as you relish those splendid flavors that come together so effortlessly.

As you sip on this delightful concoction while wrapped in your favorite blanket on chilly evenings or share it around the dining table with loved ones—it’s bound to become an instant classic!

You Must Know

  • This slow cooker lentil soup is a hearty meal that warms the soul
  • The blend of spices and vegetables creates an aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a perfect comfort food
  • Plus, it’s super easy to make, allowing you to set it and forget it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for maximum flavor, then add lentils, broth, and spices. Let the slow cooker work its magic for optimal taste and texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different veggies like carrots or spinach. Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright lift that enhances the flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic kick
  • Rinse lentils before cooking to remove any grit or impurities
  • Adjust seasonings according to your taste for a personalized touch that speaks to your palate

There was this one chilly evening when I made this soup for a gathering. Friends raved about how comforting it was, and I secretly felt like a culinary superhero serving up warmth in a bowl!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use dried beans instead of lentils in this soup?

Dried beans require longer cooking times and may not work well in this recipe.

How do I thicken my slow cooker lentil soup?

Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for added creaminess.

What can I serve with this lentil soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Lentil Soup


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  • Author: deleciouscorner
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is a nourishing blend of lentils, fresh vegetables, and spices, simmered to perfection for a warm and satisfying meal that’s ideal for chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped

Instructions

  1. Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients except the greens.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until lentils are tender.
  5. Stir in greens about 30 minutes before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 15g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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