Lentil Soup

This hearty spiced lentil stew is like a warm hug after a long day. Packed with earthy cumin, warming curry, fresh veggies, and a bright splash of lemon, it’s comfort food that’s nourishing and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on any night you want something satisfying and wholesome. Funny enough the day I made this I was sporadic because I had no onions and barely enough broth to get by.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon allspice
2 small bay leaves
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
28 ounces diced tomatoes (lightly drained, leave some juice)
1 cup green lentils
4 cups water
1 cup unsalted chicken broth (100% natural, non-GMO)
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup chopped baby spring mix (Simple Truth Organic or your fave)
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about half to one medium lemon), to taste

Directions

Heat things up!
In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and allspice, letting those spices wake up and release their magic.
Add your aromatics.
Toss in the bay leaves, chopped carrots, and minced garlic. Stir and cook until the carrots start to soften and the kitchen smells irresistible.
Spice it further.
Sprinkle in the cumin, curry powder, and thyme. Give everything a good stir so those flavors get cozy with the veggies.
Tomatoes and lentils jump in.
Add the diced tomatoes (with some juice left), green lentils, water, and chicken broth. Give it a stir and bring the whole pot to a boil.
Simmer down now.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until the lentils are tender and the stew thickens — about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
Season and brighten.
Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the chopped baby spring mix for a fresh, leafy pop. Finish with lemon juice to add a bright, zesty note that ties everything together.
Ladle this comforting stew into bowls and enjoy with warm bread or on its own for a healthy, cozy meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.