Hearty Mexican Lentil Soup

This hearty Mexican lentil soup is a flavorful and comforting dish packed with vibrant spices, wholesome lentils, and a variety of fresh vegetables. It’s an easy-to-make, nutrient-rich meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The bold Mexican spices bring a vibrant, aromatic touch to every spoonful.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making this soup both hearty and wholesome.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the heat level to your liking.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, as everything comes together in one pot.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lentils (brown or green)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, lentils, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in fresh cilantro for added flavor.
6. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for a bright citrusy finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include shredded chicken or cooked ground turkey for a meaty twist.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Enhancements: Toss in some diced sweet potatoes or zucchini for added texture.
• Garnishes: Top with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl.

FAQs

1. Can I use red lentils for this recipe?

Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, resulting in a creamier soup. If you prefer this texture, you can use red lentils but reduce the cooking time slightly.

2. Is this soup spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding more chili powder or including spicy peppers like jalapeños.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

4. What type of broth should I use?

Vegetable broth keeps this dish vegetarian, but you can use chicken broth if preferred.

5. How can I thicken the soup?

Mash a portion of the cooked lentils with a fork or blend a small amount of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker consistency.

6. What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.

7. Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

8. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients, including the broth, are certified gluten-free.

9. How can I make this soup vegan?

The recipe is already vegan, but double-check your broth to ensure it’s free of animal products.

10. Can I add other beans to this soup?

Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans can be added for extra protein and texture.

Conclusion

This hearty Mexican lentil soup is a simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its bold flavors, nutritious ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!

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