Are you looking for a comforting, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also easy to make? Look no further! This Scottish lentil soup recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a fantastic example of healthy meals done right, and it’s surprisingly quick to prepare. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, offering a far superior taste to anything you'd find in a can. Let's dive in and create this culinary masterpiece together!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes (canned are fine)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 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 minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the foundation of the soup's flavor.
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Add the lentils and broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, chopped tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. The simmering time might vary depending on the type of lentils used.
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Season and serve: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. A swirl of cream or a dollop of plain yogurt adds a lovely touch, if desired.
Tips for the Best Scottish Lentil Soup:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Check them frequently towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they reach the desired tenderness without falling apart.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Spicy Scottish Lentil Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Hearty Scottish Lentil Soup: Include chopped potatoes or diced sausage for added heartiness.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Scottish Lentil Soup: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based to maintain the vegetarian/vegan nature of the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: Around 15-20g
- Fiber: Around 15-20g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and the delicious results make it a guaranteed family favorite. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your taste and dietary needs, making it a truly valuable addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade Scottish lentil soup!