If you are craving something warm, nourishing, and wonderfully filling, this Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Lentils, packed with protein and fiber, slowly simmer with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices in the crockpot, resulting in a soup that tastes like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. Rich in texture and bursting with gentle, earthy flavors, this soup is a perfect companion for those moments when you want wholesome comfort without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The handful of ingredients each bring something special to the pot—lentils for a hearty base, vegetables for sweetness and crunch, and spices for that subtle warmth and depth. Together, they create a colorful, tasty bowl that satisfies both body and soul.
- 1 cup Dried Brown Lentils (rinsed): The star of the soup, providing a creamy texture and plant-based protein.
- 1 medium Onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
- 2 medium Carrots (sliced): Brings a hint of sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 stalks Celery (diced): Gives an aromatic crunch and layers of flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses the soup with a savory, comforting aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Introduces warm, earthy undertones to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy note for balance.
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth (low-sodium recommended): The liquid base that brings everything together without overpowering.
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes (canned): Adds acidity and a slight tang, enriching the soup’s body.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Pepper (to taste): Provides just enough bite to keep each spoonful exciting.
How to Make Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing the brown lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Dice the onion and celery, slice the carrots, and mince the garlic. Taking time here ensures your veggies will soften beautifully and blend well into the soup’s body as it cooks.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients in the Crockpot
Next, toss the lentils, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into your crockpot. Sprinkle the ground cumin and coriander over the top, then pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes, including the juice. Give everything a gentle stir to mix the spices evenly.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for about 3.5 hours. This slow simmer allows the lentils to soften to perfection and absorb all those aromatic spices and vegetable flavors, creating the soup’s signature hearty and comforting texture.
Step 4: Season to Taste and Serve
Once cooked, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—seasoning here is key to bringing all the flavors together. Stir well, then it’s ready to ladle into bowls and enjoy the fruits of your patient, loving effort.
How to Serve Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of plain yogurt can elevate this soup beautifully. These garnishes add a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich lentil broth, lightening every spoonful and adding visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with warm crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop, while a crisp salad adds refreshing texture that complements the softness of the lentils.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, turning your meal into a charming presentation that’s perfect for sharing with friends. Alternatively, offer an array of toppings like shredded cheese, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of chili oil to customize the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy days or quick lunches.
Freezing
It freezes like a dream! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal to pull out when you need cozy nourishment in minutes.
Reheating
Simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils for this Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe?
Yes! While brown lentils hold their shape nicely in slow cooking, green or French lentils also work well. Just keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, resulting in a creamier texture.
Is it necessary to soak the lentils before cooking?
No soaking is required for brown lentils, which makes this recipe even easier. Just rinse them thoroughly to clean, and they’ll cook perfectly in the crockpot over the long simmer.
Can I add meat or sausage to the soup?
Absolutely! While this recipe is vegetarian, adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken can bring extra richness and protein if desired. Just brown the meat beforehand and add it in the last hour to avoid overcooking.
How thick or thin will the soup be?
It typically has a thick, stew-like consistency because of the hearty lentils. You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth or water if you prefer a lighter soup.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to soften the vegetables, then add remaining ingredients and pressure cook on high for about 15 minutes, followed by a natural release. It’s a quicker way to enjoy the same comforting flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe is one of those gems you’ll want to keep close by, especially as the weather cools down. It’s simple, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, set your crockpot, and prepare to fall in love with a soup that’s as nurturing as it is delicious.
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Comforting Hearty Crockpot Lentil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6 cups total)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This comforting hearty crockpot lentil soup is a warm and nourishing dish perfect for any day. Packed with protein-rich lentils and fresh vegetables, gently simmered with fragrant spices in a slow cooker, this soup offers a wholesome, easy-to-make meal with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 cup Dried Brown Lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 2 medium Carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks Celery, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes (canned)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the dried brown lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris. Dice the onion and celery, slice the carrots, and mince the garlic cloves to ensure all vegetables are ready for slow cooking.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the rinsed lentils, diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Add the ground cumin and ground coriander for enhanced flavor.
- Pour Liquids: Pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth followed by the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly in the crockpot.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir once more to distribute the seasonings throughout the soup.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 3.5 hours (210 minutes) or until the lentils and vegetables are tender and the soup is thickened to your liking.
- Final Touches: Check the seasoning before serving and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Stir well and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Rinsing lentils thoroughly helps remove impurities and ensures a cleaner taste.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth is recommended to control salt levels in the soup.
- You may add extra water or broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for longer storage.
