Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils: Ultimate Comfort in Every Bite

There’s a moment in every cook’s journey when they discover the magic of sweet potato soup with lentils. For me, it was a chilly autumn afternoon. I had just returned from a brisk walk, and the vibrant colors of the leaves inspired me to create something equally comforting and warm. Sweet potato soup with lentils seemed like the perfect fit—its earthy flavors and nourishing qualities mirrored the season’s embrace.

As I chopped the onions and garlic, the aroma filled the kitchen, reminding me of cozy family gatherings where simple, wholesome meals brought us together. The sizzle of vegetables hitting the hot olive oil was like music to my ears, a familiar tune that promised a delicious outcome. Sweet potato soup with lentils quickly became a favorite in our household, a dish that not only satisfied our taste buds but also our need for comfort during cooler days.

Incorporating ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, and aromatic herbs is a delightful way to celebrate the bounty of nature. Each spoonful of sweet potato soup with lentils tells a story—a story of warmth, nutrition, and home-cooked goodness. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor each moment, much like the gentle simmering of the soup itself.

Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils

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• Author: Billie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: International

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Description

Learn how to make a hearty and nutritious Sweet Potato Soup with Lentils that will warm you up on chilly days. Perfect for a comforting meal!

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (240 ml) chopped onion
• 1 cup (240 ml) chopped celery
• 1 cup (240 ml) chopped carrot
• 1 cup (240 ml) chopped button mushrooms
• 1 cup (240 ml) chopped sweet potato
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) sea salt (+ more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried basil
• 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried oregano
• 1 cup (200 g) green or brown lentils
• 1 cup (200 g) red lentils
• 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) tomato paste
• 1 cup (240 ml) almond milk (or coconut milk depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
• 2 – 3 cups (60 g – 90 g) spinach

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Instructions

1. Warm the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Introduce the onions and garlic, and cook until aromatic, around 3 minutes. Incorporate the celery, carrot, sweet potato, and mushrooms, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Sprinkle with salt, spices, and herbs, and continue cooking for about 2 minutes.
2. Mix in the lentils and saute for 1-2 minutes, then pour in the broth, water, and tomato paste. Stir until the tomato paste is fully blended. Allow the soup to reach a boil, then cover and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes.
3. Take the pot off the heat and mix in the almond milk, lemon juice, and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts. Serve right away with your choice of garnishes.
4. For toppings, consider adding a spoonful of coconut yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, cracked black pepper, and slices of jalapeno for a touch of heat and creaminess.

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Notes

• Consider adding drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans for added protein and a heartier texture.
• Enhance the flavors by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika before serving.
• For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding almond milk and spinach.

Crafting the Perfect Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils

Fundamentals

Sweet potato soup with lentils starts with quality ingredients. Selecting fresh vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, and of course, sweet potatoes, is crucial. These foundational ingredients provide a base that’s both flavorful and nutritious. The lentils add a hearty texture, making the soup satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal.

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all the ingredients prepped and ready. Chopping the vegetables evenly ensures they cook at the same rate, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The lentils, available in both green and red varieties, offer a delightful contrast in both color and texture, enriching the soup’s complexity.

Preparation/Setup

To begin, warm the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the aromatic base of the soup. Once the oil is hot, add the onions and garlic. Their fragrance will instantly fill your kitchen, a promising start to your culinary adventure.

Next, introduce the celery, carrot, sweet potatoes, and mushrooms. Allow these vegetables to soften slightly, releasing their natural flavors into the mix. Sprinkle in sea salt, thyme, basil, and oregano, enhancing the soup’s aroma and taste. This layering of flavors ensures a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Exploring Techniques for the Best Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils

Technique

Once the vegetables are prepared, it’s time to delve into the heart of the dish—the lentils. Adding both green and red lentils not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds a delightful texture. Saute them briefly with the vegetables to allow their flavors to meld.

Pour in the vegetable broth, water, and tomato paste, stirring until the tomato paste is fully dissolved. This step is vital as it forms the soup’s base, providing depth and richness. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer gently. This allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a harmonious blend in your sweet potato soup with lentils.

Tips/Tricks

To elevate the soup’s flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice at the end. This brightens the dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Incorporating spinach just before serving not only adds a pop of color but also infuses the soup with additional nutrients.

If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, try adding a spoonful of coconut yogurt or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes as a topping. These additions can transform your sweet potato soup with lentils, offering a new dimension of taste and texture.

Perfecting Your Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect sweet potato soup with lentils involves attention to detail. Ensure the soup simmers gently, allowing the flavors to meld without overcooking the lentils. This balance results in a soup that’s both hearty and smooth.

For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before adding the almond milk. This step creates a luscious consistency that complements the lentils’ hearty nature. Remember to adjust the seasoning, adding more sea salt or herbs as needed to suit your palate.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your soup is too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. For those who prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk can be a wonderful substitute for almond milk, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the soup’s earthy tones.

Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also add variety to your sweet potato soup with lentils. Consider adding a pinch of cumin or coriander for a warming spice profile, or a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Serving and Storing Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils

Serving/Presentation

Presenting your sweet potato soup with lentils in a beautiful bowl can elevate the dining experience. Garnish with fresh parsley or slices of jalapeno for a touch of color and flavor. A spoonful of coconut yogurt can add creaminess while balancing the soup’s flavors.

The soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad, making it a versatile dish for lunch or dinner. Serve it hot, allowing the comforting warmth to envelop you as you enjoy each spoonful.

Pairings/Storage

Storing your sweet potato soup with lentils is a breeze. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days and can be frozen for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to refresh its consistency.

Pairing the soup with side dishes like buffalo chicken bacon ranch loaded potato bombs or bacon cheddar ranch smashed potatoes can create a hearty and satisfying meal. Explore different pairings to find the combination that delights your taste buds.

Conclusion

Sweet potato soup with lentils is a celebration of flavors and textures, offering a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. The combination of sweet potatoes, lentils, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

By understanding the fundamentals and exploring various techniques, you can craft a soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, sweet potato soup with lentils promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

With the right preparation and attention to detail, you’ll master this recipe in no time, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the rich, comforting flavors that sweet potato soup with lentils brings to your table.

FAQs – Sweet Potato Soup With Lentils