Lentil soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that has been warming hearts and filling bellies for generations. But if you’re looking to elevate your soup game a bit, look no further than the Moosewood Lentil Soup. Born from the iconic Moosewood Restaurant in Ithaca, New York, this soup has become an absolute classic for those who crave rich flavor, nourishing ingredients, and an easy, yet satisfying meal. It’s hearty, healthy, and incredibly versatile-perfect for any season but especially great on chilly days. And if you’ve ever wondered how to make a lentil soup that goes beyond the usual, this recipe is the answer.
Let’s break down everything you need to know-from the ingredients to the cooking instructions, ingredient insights, expert tips, and even a few ways to make the recipe your own. So, grab a spoon, and let’s get started on this flavor-packed journey.
Moosewood Lentil Soup Recipe
This soup doesn’t just fill you up; it also gives you a complete meal in a bowl. It’s packed with protein from the lentils, loaded with veggies, and seasoned with a wonderful blend of spices that make each spoonful feel like a warm hug. The beauty of the Moosewood Lentil Soup is its simplicity-it doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, but what it does have is thoughtfully chosen to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need for the recipe. You might have some of these items in your pantry already, which is a bonus!
- 1 cup dried lentils – Green or brown lentils work best, as they hold their shape well during cooking.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Onions form the base of many soups and stews. They’ll bring both sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced – Carrots add a bit of sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped – Celery gives a nice crunch and a fresh, aromatic flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic is always the aromatic powerhouse in savory dishes.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin – The earthy, slightly spicy flavor of cumin adds an exotic flair to the soup.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander – Coriander brings a citrusy, slightly sweet note that complements the cumin.
- 1 bay leaf – For a subtle earthy flavor.
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or water) – This is your soup base. Use a good-quality vegetable broth for extra flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Tomatoes add acidity and richness, which balances the lentils’ earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste – Seasoning is key, so taste and adjust!
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper – Pepper gives a bit of heat and enhances all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish) – Adds a burst of color and freshness on top of the finished soup.
Cooking Instructions
It’s incredibly easy to make this soup. The steps are simple, and you won’t need to babysit it on the stove. Let’s go step by step:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by rinsing your lentils under cold water. Then, chop your vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic). If you’re using fresh herbs for garnish, chop those as well.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, and bay leaf. Toast the spices for about 1 minute to allow the essential oils to release and infuse the oil and vegetables with their aroma.
- Combine the Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth (or water) into the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a little more acidity or brightness, feel free to squeeze some lemon juice in there.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of yogurt for extra richness.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a deeper look at the ingredients that make this soup not just nourishing, but also flavorful:
- Lentils: They are rich in protein and fiber, making them a fantastic plant-based food choice. Lentils also have a natural ability to absorb flavors, which means they soak up all the delicious spices and broth in this soup.
- Carrots and Celery: These two veggies are often the base of soups for a reason. They provide both texture and a natural sweetness that helps balance out the earthiness of the lentils.
- Cumin and Coriander: These spices come from the same plant, but their flavors are distinctly different. Cumin is warm and earthy, while coriander has a fresh, citrusy undertone. Together, they create a complex yet balanced flavor profile.
- Tomatoes: Adding tomatoes introduces a bit of acidity, which brightens up the soup and cuts through the richness of the lentils.
Expert Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris that might be mixed in.
- Make it Ahead: Lentil soup often tastes even better the next day because the flavors have had time to meld together. Make a double batch and store leftovers for a quick meal later in the week.
- Use a High-Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup’s flavor, so use a good vegetable broth or make your own. You can also experiment with a bit of coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Add Greens for Extra Nutrients: You can add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard toward the end of cooking for a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the soup at a low simmer to avoid overcooking the lentils or vegetables, which can lead to a mushy texture.
Recipe Variations
Lentil soup is one of those dishes that’s perfect for experimentation. Here are a few ways you can mix things up:
- Add Spice: If you enjoy heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup while it’s simmering. It’ll add a lovely kick.
- Turn it into a Curry: Add a tablespoon of curry powder or garam masala to transform this soup into a warming, spiced curry-style dish.
- Meat Lover’s Twist: For a non-vegetarian version, sauté some chopped bacon or sausage with the onions for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Puree it: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can puree half of the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender, giving it a creamy texture while leaving some lentils and veggies intact.
Final Words
The Moosewood Lentil Soup is simple, satisfying, and brimming with flavor. What makes it even more appealing is how customizable it is-you can tweak the spices, add extra veggies, or make it as spicy as you like. It’s the perfect meal for when you want something healthy yet comforting, and it has a way of hitting the spot, no matter how you make it. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and will quickly become a favorite in your household.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In The Moosewood Lentil Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients in the Moosewood lentil soup recipe include lentils, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and bay leaves.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare The Moosewood Lentil Soup?
It typically takes around 15 minutes to prep the ingredients, and 45-60 minutes to cook the soup, depending on the desired consistency of the lentils.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Lentil In The Moosewood Lentil Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of lentils, such as green, red, or brown lentils. However, cooking times may vary, and some lentils may break down more than others.
Is The Moosewood Lentil Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, the Moosewood lentil soup recipe is vegan. It is made with vegetable broth and contains no animal products.
Can I Freeze The Moosewood Lentil Soup For Later Use?
Yes, the Moosewood lentil soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How Can I Make The Moosewood Lentil Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add more cumin, coriander, or chili powder. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced fresh chilies.
What Can I Serve With Moosewood Lentil Soup?
Moosewood lentil soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
How Can I Make The Moosewood Lentil Soup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. You can also add more lentils or cook the soup for a longer period of time to reduce the liquid.
What Type Of Broth Should I Use For The Moosewood Lentil Soup?
The recipe calls for vegetable broth, but you can also use low-sodium vegetable broth or homemade vegetable stock for added flavor.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Moosewood Lentil Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup as it simmers.