5-Ingredient Vegan Lentil Soup for Cozy Nights

5-Ingredient Vegan Lentil Soup for Cozy Nights: A Bowl of Comfort

Warm, hearty, and effortlessly wholesome, this 5-ingredient vegan lentil soup is the ultimate companion for chilly evenings. Lentils, a nutritional powerhouse, simmer in aromatic vegetable broth with onions, garlic, and a touch of cumin, creating a velvety, flavorful dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe skips complexity without sacrificing depth, proving that simplicity can still deliver bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this soup promises a cozy hug in every spoonful.

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Ingredients for 5-Ingredient Vegan Lentil Soup

You’ll need just five pantry staples:
1. Dried green or brown lentils (1 cup, rinsed) – High in protein and fiber.
2. Vegetable broth (4 cups) – Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
3. Yellow onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweet, savory depth.
4. Garlic cloves (3–4, minced) – For a fragrant kick.
5. Ground cumin (1 tsp) – Lends earthy warmth.

*Optional*: Salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil (for sautéing, if desired).

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Instructions for Cozy Vegan Lentil Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, sauté diced onion in 1–2 tbsp water or olive oil over medium heat until translucent (3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cumin; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Soup: Stir in rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
3. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. For a creamier texture, blend half the soup with an immersion blender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

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Recipe Notes & Tips

– Lentil Varieties: Red lentils cook faster but turn mushy; green/brown hold shape better.
– Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, diced carrots, or tomatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
– Oil-Free: Sauté onions and garlic in water or broth instead of oil.
– Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

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Nutrition Facts

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FAQs: 5-Ingredient Vegan Lentil Soup

1. Can I use red lentils instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 15–20 minutes, as red lentils soften quickly.

2. How do I make this oil-free?
Sauté onions and garlic in water or vegetable broth instead of oil.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or spinach work well. Add hardy veggies early; leafy greens at the end.

4. How long does this soup keep?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

5. Is this soup high in protein?
Yes! Lentils provide 14g protein per serving, making it a filling, plant-based meal.

Whip up this soul-warming soup and savor the simplicity of cozy, wholesome cooking! 🌱🍲