Making this soup is surprisingly simple and straightforward. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious Hearty Vegetarian Lentil and Veggie Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the diced onion and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and softened. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your soup. Sautéing the onion and celery releases their aromatic compounds, creating a savory foundation for the other ingredients to build upon. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften properly will result in a richer and more flavorful soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Carrots

Next, add the minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. The garlic should become fragrant, and the carrots should start to soften slightly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the soup. Sautéing the garlic briefly releases its pungent aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup. Carrots, when sautéed, release their natural sweetness, adding another layer of flavor complexity.

Step 3: Introduce the Lentils and Spices

Now it’s time to add the star of the show – the lentils! Pour in the brown or green lentils into the pot. Stir them to coat them with the olive oil and sautéed vegetables. This helps to lightly toast the lentils, which can enhance their flavor and prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking. After a minute or two, add the dried thyme and dried oregano. Stir the spices into the vegetables and lentils, allowing them to bloom in the heat. Blooming the spices in oil releases their essential oils, intensifying their aroma and flavor, and ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the soup.

Step 4: Pour in the Liquids and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice) into the pot. Make sure the lentils and vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid. The vegetable broth provides the liquid base for the soup and infuses it with savory flavor. Diced tomatoes add acidity, sweetness, and a vibrant, slightly tangy element that balances the earthiness of the lentils.

Step 5: Add Bay Leaf and Season

Add the bay leaf to the pot. Bay leaf is a subtle but important ingredient that adds a layer of herbaceous complexity to the soup as it simmers. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and then adjust to your taste later. Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to meld and develop as the soup cooks.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup 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 and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Simmering allows the lentils to soften and cook completely, and it also allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious and deeply flavorful soup. The simmering process is essential for achieving the perfect texture and taste.

Step 7: Add Optional Vegetables (If Using)

If you are adding any optional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or kale, now is the time to do so. Stir them into the soup and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Leafy greens like spinach and kale will wilt quickly, while firmer vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers will require a bit longer to cook. Adding these vegetables towards the end of the cooking process ensures they retain some texture and don’t become overly mushy.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Once the lentils and vegetables are cooked to your liking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This is your opportunity to personalize the soup to your exact taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor balance.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving. Ladle the Hearty Vegetarian Lentil and Veggie Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious flavors of your homemade soup!