Budget-Friendly Lentil Soup: Hearty Comfort, Economical Goodness
Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of lentil soup, its earthy aroma filling your kitchen with the promise of a satisfying meal. That’s the magic of this Budget-Friendly Lentil Soup – a hearty and flavorful dish brimming with nutritious lentils and a subtle hint of smoky paprika. This simple yet satisfying soup is the perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner, offering a delicious and economical way to nourish your body and your wallet. It's a vibrant and savory dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare, proving that healthy and delicious food doesn't have to break the bank.
This #LentilSoup recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients and maximum flavor. The earthy lentils are the stars of the show, providing a hearty base and substantial texture. The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor that elevates the soup beyond a simple staple, creating a warmth and complexity that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The vegetables, such as carrots and celery, add sweetness and nutrients, enhancing both the flavor and the nutritional value of this #heartysoup. This #lentilrecipe is perfect for those seeking a delicious and economical meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. This #budgetfriendly option is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Economical Elegance: Nourishing and Affordable
This recipe is designed for the budget-conscious cook who appreciates both delicious food and affordability. Lentils are an incredibly economical ingredient, packed with protein and fiber, making them a fantastic base for a hearty and nutritious soup. The recipe uses readily available and inexpensive ingredients, reducing food costs without compromising on flavor or quality. This #souprecipe provides a perfect example of how delicious and nutritious meals can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. This #economicalmeal is a smart and delicious way to feed your family.
The addition of smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor that’s both unique and appealing. It provides a subtle smokiness that complements the earthiness of the lentils and the sweetness of the vegetables. This simple spice elevates the soup from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a flavor profile that's both comforting and complex. The simple act of adding this paprika transforms this #weeknightdinner into something special without increasing the cost significantly. This recipe is a testament to the fact that even simple dishes can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Recipe: Budget-Friendly Lentil Soup
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Servings: | 6 servings |
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup (200g) brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups (1.4L) vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
- Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach.
- For a heartier soup, add cooked sausage or ham.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this #souprecipe with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
This #budgetfriendly recipe is a delicious and affordable way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal.
Explore more budget-friendly recipes at FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com!