Are you craving a hearty and comforting meal after a long day of vanquishing beasts and exploring the Lands Between? Then look no further! Inspired by the restorative power of Warming Stones in Elden Ring, this recipe delivers a delicious and surprisingly easy-to-make soup that'll warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a quick dinner, this healthy meal is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness
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 and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the lentils, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer and blend (optional): Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup at this stage. This is entirely up to your preference!
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Add the greens: Stir in the kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness and creaminess. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a drizzle of olive oil, if you like.
Tips for the Best Warming Stone Soup:
- Use fresh herbs: If you have access to fresh thyme and rosemary, use them! They'll add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the soup.
- Adjust the seasonings: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preferences.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make it a heartier meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for a more substantial soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Warming Stone Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Warming Stone Soup: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Warming Stone Soup: Ensure you use vegetable broth and omit any non-vegetarian additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, you can expect a serving to be relatively low in fat and high in fiber and protein, thanks to the lentils and vegetables. A more precise nutritional breakdown can be obtained using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This Elden Ring-inspired recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals don't have to be complicated. Enjoy your culinary journey!