Lentil soup has long been a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re coming in from a chilly afternoon or looking to whip up a simple, yet satisfying meal, there’s something about the heartiness of lentils and the rich, savory broth that makes it feel like a hug in a bowl. Among the various lentil soups, Progresso’s Lentil Soup has gained its fair share of popularity, known for its deliciously simple yet fulfilling blend of ingredients.
This recipe is an easy, homemade take on that beloved classic, bringing together a savory medley of lentils, vegetables, and spices, all cooked together to create a comforting meal in a fraction of the time it would take to make from scratch. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will help you make a delicious bowl of lentil soup, just like the one you remember from the iconic Progresso brand. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for getting it just right.
Progresso Lentil Soup Recipe
This homemade rendition of Progresso Lentil Soup is the perfect combination of healthy, hearty, and delicious. The recipe strikes a balance between simplicity and flavor, utilizing basic ingredients that come together to create a deeply satisfying meal. It’s an excellent choice for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your personal tastes or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need for this tasty lentil soup:
- 1 cup dried lentils – Lentils are the heart of this dish. They’re inexpensive, packed with protein and fiber, and cook relatively quickly compared to other dried legumes.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Onions form the flavor base of the soup. They soften as they cook, adding a rich, sweet undertone to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings in that savory depth, giving your soup a fragrant and bold flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped – Carrots add natural sweetness and color to the soup, balancing out the savory elements with their mild flavor.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Celery gives the soup a bit of crunch and earthiness, while also enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Tomatoes are a key ingredient for both tanginess and richness. They add complexity and acidity to the broth.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – The base liquid for the soup. You can use vegetable, chicken, or beef broth, depending on your dietary preference.
- 1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle, earthy note that will infuse the broth as the soup simmers.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – A warm, aromatic spice that brings an earthy, slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a fragrant, herby quality that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning. Be sure to adjust this as the soup simmers to your liking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables, olive oil helps develop the base flavors before the broth is added.
- Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley – For brightness and garnish right before serving.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make the Progresso-style Lentil Soup:
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by prepping all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the carrots, and celery. Rinse the lentils thoroughly, making sure to remove any debris or small stones. Set everything aside for easy access as you begin the cooking process.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Next, toss in the garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the spices toast for about a minute to release their oils and aromas.
- Add the lentils and liquid: Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Final touches: If you like, you can remove the bay leaf before serving. For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the soup just before serving or sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and brightness.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! It’s fantastic on its own or served with a slice of crusty bread.
Ingredient Insights
- Lentils: Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. They also provide plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption. Plus, lentils cook relatively quickly, which makes them an ideal base for soups like this one.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables are commonly used in soups and stews because they provide a balance of sweetness and earthiness. Both are packed with vitamins and minerals. Carrots, in particular, are a great source of vitamin A, which is good for vision and skin health, while celery is hydrating and provides essential antioxidants.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes not only add acidity to balance out the richness of the lentils but they’re also packed with lycopene, an antioxidant known for its cancer-fighting properties.
- Spices: The cumin and thyme blend in this recipe creates a warm, aromatic profile that complements the lentils’ mild taste. Cumin, in particular, adds a bit of smokiness, while thyme brings a fresh herbal note that elevates the dish.
Expert Tips
- For richer flavor: Consider using a homemade or high-quality store-bought vegetable broth. The broth is the base of the soup, so using something flavorful will make a big difference.
- If the soup is too thick: Lentils absorb liquid as they cook, so if you find that your soup is too thick, just add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add greens for extra nutrients: If you’re looking to add even more nutrients to the soup, consider stirring in some spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt down perfectly and blend in beautifully.
- For a smoother texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after it’s done cooking. This will make it more velvety without losing the rustic texture completely.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread, or add some cooked quinoa or brown rice directly into the soup to turn it into an even heartier meal.
Recipe Variations
- Add protein: For those wanting to add more protein, you can incorporate diced chicken, turkey, or even sausage. Just add it in when you sauté the vegetables to ensure it cooks through.
- Spicy version: Add a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick. The heat balances beautifully with the earthy lentils and savory broth.
- Vegan version: This recipe is already vegan, but if you’re looking to make it even more plant-based, ensure the broth you’re using is vegetable-based. You can also replace the olive oil with coconut oil for a subtle flavor variation.
- Add grains: Want to make the soup even heartier? Throw in some cooked quinoa, farro, or barley for added texture and nutrition.
Final Words
This Progresso-inspired Lentil Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal-simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s an easy recipe to follow, perfect for anyone looking to prepare a homemade version of a beloved classic. With a few basic ingredients, a little bit of time, and a dash of creativity, you’ll have a rich, hearty soup that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or prepping it for lunch during the week, this lentil soup is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In The Progresso Lentil Soup Recipe?
The Progresso Lentil Soup recipe typically includes lentils, carrots, onions, celery, tomatoes, garlic, vegetable broth, and a variety of seasonings such as thyme, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper.
Can I Make Progresso Lentil Soup With Meat?
Yes, while the classic Progresso Lentil Soup recipe is vegetarian, you can add diced ham, bacon, or sausage for a non-vegetarian version. This will give the soup a richer, meaty flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Progresso Lentil Soup?
The cooking time for Progresso Lentil Soup is typically around 45 minutes to an hour. This includes time for preparing the ingredients and simmering the soup until the lentils are tender.
Can I Use Canned Lentils For The Progresso Lentil Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned lentils as a shortcut. However, it may affect the texture and flavor slightly. If using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.
How Do I Make The Progresso Lentil Soup Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce during the cooking process. You can also include spicy sausage or chili powder for additional heat.
What Can I Serve With Progresso Lentil Soup?
Progresso Lentil Soup pairs well with a variety of sides, including crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Can I Freeze Progresso Lentil Soup?
Yes, Progresso Lentil Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is Progresso Lentil Soup Healthy?
Yes, Progresso Lentil Soup is generally considered healthy. It is high in fiber and protein from the lentils, and it contains a variety of vegetables. However, the sodium content can be high, so it’s important to choose a low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Can I Make Progresso Lentil Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make Progresso Lentil Soup in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
How Do I Thicken Progresso Lentil Soup?
To thicken Progresso Lentil Soup, you can mash some of the cooked lentils with a potato masher or immersion blender. Alternatively, you can add a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour mixed with water.