Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Lentil and Vegetable Soup?
It is a hearty, protein-packed meal inspired by Alton Brown that combines lentils, fresh vegetables, and warm spices for a wholesome comfort food experience.
Who inspired this lentil soup recipe?
This specific recipe is inspired by the cooking techniques and flavor profiles of Alton Brown.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 10 servings, making it great for families or meal prep.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 220 calories.
Is this Savory Lentil and Vegetable Soup gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredient list provided, this soup is gluten-free.
Can this soup be made vegan?
While the recipe lists chicken broth, it can easily be made vegan by substituting the chicken broth with additional vegetable broth.
How much protein is in each bowl?
Each serving provides about 8.5 grams of protein.
How much fiber does this soup contain?
This soup is high in fiber, offering 10 grams per serving.
What type of vegetables are needed for the base?
The base consists of chopped onion, carrot, and celery sautéed in olive oil.
What spices give this soup its flavor?
The recipe uses ground coriander, ground cumin, and ground grains of paradise for a rich, aromatic profile.
What are grains of paradise?
Grains of paradise are a spice related to ginger and cardamom, offering a peppery, citrusy flavor.
How should I prepare the lentils?
The 1 lb of lentils should be culled and rinsed before being added to the pot.
Do the tomatoes need special preparation?
Yes, the tomatoes should be peeled and cubed for the best texture in the soup.
What is the first step in cooking the soup?
The first step is to heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion, carrot, and celery with kosher salt.
How long does it take to sauté the vegetables?
Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onions are translucent.
How much broth is required?
The recipe calls for 1 quart of chicken broth and 1 quart of vegetable broth.
How long should the soup simmer?
The soup should simmer covered for 35 to 45 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Can I change the texture of the soup?
Yes, you can leave it chunky or use an immersion blender for a smoother, creamier texture.
What is the fat content per serving?
This is a low-fat soup, containing only 3 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in one serving?
There are 35 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is kosher salt necessary for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, which helps draw moisture from the vegetables during sautéing.
What heat setting should be used for simmering?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, you should reduce the heat to low for the simmering process.
What is the total number of ingredients used?
There are 12 main ingredients used in this recipe.
Is this soup a good choice for cold weather?
Absolutely, it is described as a warm, hearty comfort food perfect for chilly evenings.
What can I serve with this lentil soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
How much cumin is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin.
How much coriander is needed?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander.
Is the onion preparation specific?
Yes, the recipe suggests chopping the onion finely for a better distribution throughout the soup.
How do I know when the soup is done?
The soup is done when the lentils are tender and the various flavors have thoroughly melded together.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional data indicates no added sugar in this soup recipe.