how to make lentil soup

To make lentil soup, follow these general steps:

1. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook chopped onions until caramelized (which can take up to 45 minutes for deeper flavor). Then add diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic, cooking until lightly browned and tender (about 5-6 minutes).
2. Add spices: Stir in ground cumin and coriander or other preferred spices (such as curry powder or paprika).
3. Add lentils and liquids: Pour in rinsed lentils, diced potatoes (optional), bay leaves, and broth or stock. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer: Cover with a lid and cook over low to medium heat for 30-45 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Blend: To thicken, pulse blend about half of the soup with a hand immersion blender or blend half in a regular blender, then return to the pot.
6. Season and finish: Remove bay leaves, then adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or other herbs.
7. Serve warm, optionally with bread.

This method delivers a flavorful, hearty lentil soup that can be adapted with additional ingredients like tomatoes, greens, or coconut milk depending on preference.