Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that's also easy on the wallet? Look no further! This cabbage and lentil soup recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. Bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients, this soup is a winner for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of your soup.
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Add lentils and broth: Stir in the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
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Incorporate the cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. Don't overcook the cabbage, as it can become mushy.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This simple garnish adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cabbage and Lentil Soup:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or green beans to this recipe.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of grated cheese also complements the soup nicely.
Variations:
- Spicy Cabbage and Lentil Soup: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Hearty Cabbage and Lentil Soup with Sausage: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the other vegetables for a heartier soup.
- Vegetarian Cabbage and Lentil Soup with Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used. Consider this a rough estimate, and use a nutrition calculator for more precise values.
This simple cabbage and lentil soup is a fantastic example of how healthy meals can also be delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Enjoy!