Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a delicious way to get in more fiber! In fact, according to the USDA, 95% of adults are fiber deficient, so it looks like we could all use a bowl of this lentil soup. Luckily this dish is so delicious and comforting, that it will be a breeze to up your fiber intake. With loads of delicious veggies like carrot, celery, kale, and onion swimming in a creamy tomatoey base, and of course, creamy lentils and kidney beans, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Sauteé away!

Yummy spices and aromatics!

Simmering away in the pot!

Yum, yum, yum!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium or 1/2 large yellow onion diced

• 2 carrots chopped

• 1 stalk of celery chopped

• 5 minced garlic cloves

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 1 teaspoon curry powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1-2 teaspoons of salt - to taste

• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 4 cups water

• 1 cup green lentils

• 280z can crushed tomatoes

• 2 Roma tomatoes diced

• 15oz can kidney beans

• 2 cups chopped kale

Directions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the olive oil. Wait until it starts to shimmer, and after 1-2 minutes, add in the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic.

2. After 3-5 minutes of cooking, or until the onion is translucent and the veggies are soft, add in the cumin, curry powder, thyme, salt, and pepper and stir.

3. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, diced Roma tomatoes, and water to the pot.

4. Rinse the lentils and add them to the pot.

5. Put a lid on the pot and cook for roughly 30 minutes on low-medium heat, or until the lentils are cooked.

6. Add in the kidney beans as well as some of the liquid from the can (about 1/2 cup).

7. Transfer two cups of the soup to a blender and place a dishcloth over the top to prevent splashing. Blend the soup until a purée is formed, and add it back into the pot.

8. Stir in the puréed soup and add the chopped kale. Cook the kale for approximately five minutes, or until it has fully wilted into the soup.

9. Turn off the stove. Taste the soup and add more spices, salt, or pepper to your liking.

10. Ladle into bowls and serve while hot!

Bon Appétit!