Mediterranean Comfort Lentil Soup
This Mediterranean Comfort Lentil Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup combines the earthiness of lentils with the aromatic herbs of marjoram and thyme. Prepared with fresh vegetables, a splash of white wine, and hearty chopped tomatoes, it encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Whether you are serving it on a chilly night or prepping meals in advance, this recipe is incredibly easy to scale, making it ideal for family gatherings or freezer meals. You'll love how a simple bowl can feel luxurious and satisfying, yet packed with wholesome nutrition.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (None)
onions
2 (chopped)
carrots
3 (grated)
marjoram
3/4 teaspoon (None)
thyme
3/4 teaspoon (None)
white wine
3/4 cup (None)
chopped canned tomatoes
28 ounces (with juice)
vegetable broth or beef broth
7 cups (None)
lentils
1 1/2 cups (rinsed in 4 changes of water)
salt
to taste (None)
pepper
to taste (None)
parsley
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
cheddar cheese
1 cup (grated (optional))
Instructions
1
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2
Stir in the grated carrots, marjoram, and thyme. Continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant.
3
Pour in the white wine, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to cook off for a minute.
4
Add the canned tomatoes with their juice, the vegetable or beef broth, and the rinsed lentils. Stir well and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the lentils are tender.
6
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then add the chopped parsley and simmer for another couple of minutes.
7
Serve hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Comfort Lentil Soup?
It is a hearty, flavorful soup that combines lentils with aromatic herbs like marjoram and thyme, fresh vegetables, and a hint of white wine for a comforting meal.
Is this soup recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the soup is vegetarian as long as you choose vegetable broth as your base.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and omit the optional cheddar cheese garnish at the end.
What kind of lentils should I use?
While the recipe does not specify, brown or green lentils are typically best for this cooking time as they hold their shape well.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer for approximately one hour or until the lentils are completely tender.
Can I freeze Mediterranean Comfort Lentil Soup?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for freezer meals and can be easily stored for later use.
What broth is best for this recipe?
You can use either vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian option or beef broth for a richer, deeper flavor.
Is the white wine necessary?
The white wine adds acidity and depth, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with a splash of lemon juice or extra broth.
What are the primary herbs in this soup?
The main aromatic herbs used are marjoram and thyme, along with fresh parsley added at the end.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely. Celery, spinach, or kale would make excellent additions to the existing onion and carrot base.
Why do I need to rinse the lentils four times?
Rinsing the lentils thoroughly helps remove any dust, debris, and excess starch, leading to a cleaner flavor and clearer broth.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh chopped tomatoes, though you may need to add a little extra liquid to compensate for the juice found in canned tomatoes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth label to ensure no gluten additives are present.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sauté the vegetables first and then cook everything on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Is an Instant Pot suitable for this recipe?
Yes, you can use the soup setting on an Instant Pot for approximately 15-20 minutes with a natural pressure release.
What should I serve with this soup?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Is the cheddar cheese garnish mandatory?
No, the cheddar cheese is an optional addition for those who want extra richness and a creamy finish.
How do I scale this recipe for a larger group?
This recipe is easily scalable; simply double or triple all ingredient quantities and use a larger stockpot.
What does marjoram taste like in this soup?
Marjoram offers a sweet, floral, and slightly woody flavor that is more delicate than oregano.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
You can, but use about one-third of the amount (roughly 1 tablespoon) since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Does the soup get thicker over time?
Yes, lentils continue to absorb liquid as they sit, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes, it is high in fiber and protein from the lentils and packed with vitamins from the carrots and tomatoes.
What can I substitute for marjoram?
If you don't have marjoram, oregano is the closest substitute, though it has a slightly stronger flavor.
Can I use chicken broth instead?
Yes, chicken broth is a great alternative if you are not following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Is this a good meal-prep recipe?
Excellent. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day or two in the refrigerator.
How long can it stay in the freezer?
It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months when stored in a proper freezer-safe container.
Should the carrots be grated or chopped?
The recipe calls for grated carrots, which allows them to melt into the broth and provide a consistent texture.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, cooked Italian sausage or diced bacon would be delicious additions for those who prefer meat.