Sweet Potato Lentil Soup

This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a warming hug in a bowl! Whether the weather outside is dreary or you’re cozying up for a family gathering, this soup is bound to bring smiles all around. Think of creamy sweet potatoes, hearty lentils, and aromatic veggies blending together to create a delightful warmth that nourishes both body and soul. Plus, one-pot meals like this mean less fuss and more fun in the kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, yet your taste buds will dance as they experience the depth of flavors. So, gather your ingredients and let’s whip up something spectacular that’s sure to be a hit!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup combines wholesome ingredients that not only nourish the body but also tantalize the taste buds. The mix of lentils and sweet potatoes creates a creamy texture, while the aromatic vegetables and herbs build layers of flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal—perfect for easy preparation and cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup

This soup is not just hearty and filling; it’s also incredibly versatile and can adapt to your favorite tastes. Whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or traditional, this recipe allows you to customize your bowl of goodness. Its simplicity makes it primarily about the ingredients, keeping your cooking experience enjoyable and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, plus more to drizzle
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery sticks, diced
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb (450 grams) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup (200 grams) brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 5½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon thyme or Italian seasoning
• 1 bay leaf
• ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste

How to Make Sweet Potato Lentil Soup

Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently until the onion turns translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook until it’s fragrant, around 50-60 seconds.

Combine Ingredients

Next, add the diced sweet potatoes, rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried rosemary, dried basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Bring to a Boil

Now, it’s time to turn up the heat and bring your mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, you’ll want to reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are nice and tender.

Adjust Seasoning

After cooking, turn off the heat and taste your soup. This is the moment to adjust the seasoning—feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of chili flakes if you’re craving a bit of spice.

Optional: Blend for Creaminess

If you like a creamier texture, transfer 1 cup of the soup to a blender. Safely purée until smooth, then pour it back into the pot. Stir to combine, adding a touch of broth if you want a thinner consistency.

Serve Hot

Serve your soup hot, and don’t forget the crusty bread for dunking! If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese on top. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil and add a sprinkle of black pepper if that tickles your taste buds. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Sweet Potato Lentil Soup experience by pairing it with toasted sourdough bread or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. For added crunch, consider serving it with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds on top.

Tips for Success

• Remember to rinse the lentils before adding them to the soup to clear away any debris.
• Feel free to swap herbs based on your preference; fresh herbs can bring a bright flavor.
• If you enjoy a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños for extra heat or splash in a bit of hot sauce.
• Creamy Version: Swap half the vegetable broth with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist.
• Vegetable Boost: Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for an extra nutrient punch.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Sweet Potato Lentil Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Just let it cool before storing in airtight containers.

2. How long can leftovers be stored in the fridge?
Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days when kept in an airtight container.

3. Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green?
Absolutely! Red lentils work well but will cook faster and result in a softer texture.

4. Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Definitely! All the ingredients in this Sweet Potato Lentil Soup are plant-based.

5. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you want a thicker soup, purée a portion of it or add more diced sweet potatoes.

This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup is easy to make, nutritious, and deeply satisfying. Its comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a fantastic dish for family dinners or meal prepping. You can customize the ingredients to match your tastes, ensuring every bowl is uniquely yours. Enjoy the warmth and happiness this soup brings; it’s perfect for brightening any chilly day!

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