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250 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed thoroughly
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1-2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (adjust to your preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Steps
- 1**Sauté Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2**Add Garlic and Lentils:** Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to coat them lightly with the oil and vegetables.
- 3**Simmer the Soup:** Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- 4**Flavor Boost:** Once the lentils are cooked, remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the Dijon mustard. Begin with 1 tablespoon and taste. Add more if you desire a stronger mustard kick.
- 5**Season and Serve:** Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Hearty French Lentil Soup: Cook From Your Pantry
Embrace the art of cooking from what you already have with this delightful French Lentil Soup. This recipe is a testament to how simple, pantry-staple ingredients can transform into a deeply satisfying and nutritious meal. The star of this dish is, of course, the humble lentil, elevated by the subtle tang of Dijon mustard and aromatic vegetables. It's a perfect example of how a few key ingredients can create a complex and comforting flavor profile.
Make It Your Own: Tips for Success
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like leeks, diced potatoes, parsnips, or even a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. Heartier root vegetables should be added with the carrots and celery, while leafy greens only need a few minutes to wilt.
- Creamy Texture: For a richer, creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer about 1-2 cups of the soup to a regular blender (ensure the lid is vented to allow steam to escape) and blend until smooth, then stir it back into the pot.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the thyme for a subtle warmth that complements the earthy lentils.
- Storage: This French Lentil Soup stores exceptionally well. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great candidate for meal prepping.
Nutritional Snapshot (per serving, approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fiber | 12g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Can I use different types of lentils? A: Yes, while brown or green lentils are recommended as they hold their shape well, red lentils can also be used. Red lentils will cook faster and break down more, resulting in a creamier, thicker soup. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Q: What if I don't have Dijon mustard? A: You can omit it if you don't have any on hand. For a similar tang, consider using a small amount of whole grain mustard for a different texture, or add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end of cooking to provide a pleasant acidity.
- Q: Can I make this soup vegan? A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily made vegan by ensuring you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Double-check any garnishes to ensure they are also vegan-friendly.
- Q: How long does this soup last and can it be frozen? A: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container. It also freezes beautifully for longer storage, making it perfect for batch cooking.
Ready to transform your pantry staples into a gourmet meal? This French Lentil Soup with Dijon Mustard is a perfect example of delicious, resourceful cooking that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy every spoonful!
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