Plain Lentil Soup (Vegan...and low fat too!)

SaraFish's Note:

Delicious, hearty, low fat and high protein soup that doesn't use meat or bones for flavor - just fresh veggies and spices.

• Total Time: 55 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1 lb dried lentils
• 8 cups water
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 ½ cups chopped carrots
• ¼ teaspoon ground thyme
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Wash lentils.
2. Put all ingredients in large pot.
3. Bring to boil then reduce heat and simmer 40 minutes til lentils are tender.
4. Blend in blender in batches until all soup is smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper.

Reviews

[spatchcock]

This is EXCELLENT. It's on my stove right now, keeping until dinner. I've already eaten a bowl because I couldn't wait! The texture of this is nice and smooth--a bit of grain depending on how finely you process the ingredients once they've cooked. Because I can never make a recipe as is, I added about four cloves of garlic and also a few red pepper flakes (probably a teaspoon.) I also used chicken stock to replace about half of the water, although I realize that changes the vegetarian part of this recipe. THANKS for posting!

[jedi master in training]

Yummy! I did alter a bit though. Instead of the spices recommemded, I used about a tablespoon of Garam Masala, half tablespoon of fresh grated ginger, and 2 teaspoons of ground cumin and salt to taste. Lovely flavors that are warm and satisfying!

[Chef #48136]

Very hearty, filling soup. Easy to make, too. I added a few cloves of garlic, and used vegetable broth for part of the liquid. Only downside is the appearance: brown puree is not the most attractive thing. Oh well, at least it tastes good!