When the weather cools down, we crave something warm, filling, and hearty—and this Vegan Lentil Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with protein-rich lentils, flavorful vegetables, and a blend of spices, this soup is both nourishing and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re being hugged from the inside with every spoonful.
This recipe was born out of a need for something quick, hearty, and packed with plant-based protein. We were craving a filling soup that could keep us satisfied through the afternoon, and lentils were the perfect solution! Now, this soup has become one of our go-to weeknight dinners—it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and makes a large batch that lasts for days.
🌱 Why We LOVE This Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup
✔️ Packed with protein – lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein
✔️ Full of fiber – great for digestion and keeping you full longer
✔️ Rich in flavor – thanks to a blend of herbs, spices, and vegetables
✔️ Comforting and hearty – the perfect meal for chilly nights
💡 Fun Fact: Lentils are not only packed with protein, but they’re also rich in iron, making them an excellent choice for plant-based diets!
🥄 The Secret to Flavorful Lentil Soup
The key to a great lentil soup is in the seasoning. We use a blend of:
✔️ Garlic & onion – for the savory base
✔️ Ground cumin – adds a warm, earthy note
✔️ Turmeric & paprika – to boost the color and flavor
✔️ Thyme & bay leaves – classic soup herbs that bring everything together
💡 Pro Tip: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. A little cayenne can add a nice kick if you like things spicy!
🍅 Hearty Veggies Make This Soup Even Better
Lentils are the base, but the vegetables really make this soup shine. We love adding:
✔️ Carrots – sweet and tender, they balance out the earthy lentils
✔️ Celery – adds crunch and a fresh flavor
✔️ Tomatoes – for a touch of acidity and depth
✔️ Spinach – to add some greens and extra nutrition
This mix of vegetables creates a well-rounded flavor profile that makes each bite a little different, but always delicious!
💡 For Extra Protein: Add some chopped tofu or tempeh to the soup for a little extra texture and protein.
💧 The Best Lentils for Soup
We typically use green or brown lentils for this recipe—they hold their shape well and have a mild, earthy flavor that works beautifully in soups. Unlike red lentils, which break down into a mushier texture, these lentils stay firm and provide a great texture in every spoonful.
💡 Quick Tip: Rinse the lentils well before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a clean soup!
🧄 The Perfect Soup Consistency
When it comes to consistency, this soup is thick and hearty, but not too heavy. The lentils break down just enough to create a rich, creamy texture without being pureed. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can always use an immersion blender to blend part of it for a creamier consistency.
💡 Want it even thicker? Simply cook the soup a little longer, or add an extra handful of lentils for more texture.
🥄 How to Serve & Store Your Vegan Lentil Soup
This soup is perfect for meal prep—it stores beautifully and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
✔️ Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
✔️ Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months—just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers
💡 Quick Reheat Tip: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up if needed!
🥣 A Meal That Warms Your Body & Soul
This Vegan Lentil Soup is one of those dishes that feels like a big bowl of comfort. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a cozy dinner, or something to bring to a gathering, this soup will always hit the spot. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, so it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
We hope this recipe brings as much warmth and comfort to your kitchen as it has to ours! 🥰
Ingredients
- 1 cup 200g dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 can 14 oz / 400g diced tomatoes
- 4 cups 1L vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric optional
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the Spices & Lentils
- Add the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables.
- Rinse the lentils, then add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf.
- Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Stir in lemon juice for added freshness. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender.
- Want extra protein? Add chickpeas or tofu cubes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup
🥣 What Type of Lentils Work Best for This Soup?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture. If you prefer a creamier soup, red lentils will break down more during cooking.
🍅 Can I Make This Soup Without Tomatoes?
Yes! You can leave out the tomatoes and add extra vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
🌿 What Herbs and Spices Enhance the Flavor?
Bay leaves, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, and a dash of chili flakes add depth and warmth to the soup.
🥕 Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, spinach, kale, or bell peppers make great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.
🔥 Can I Make This Soup in an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?
Yes! For an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for about 12 minutes. In a slow cooker, let it simmer on low for 6–8 hours.
🌡️ How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if needed.
We hope these tips help you enjoy the perfect Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup! Stay warm and nourished! 🥣🌿✨
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