Lentil Soup

Lentil soup doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves, but this one is here to change that. It’s humble, hearty, and the kind of comforting homemade soup that quietly wins you over with every spoonful.

If you're craving healthy dinner ideas that also taste like comfort food, make a cozy pot of this lentil soup. I know "healthy" and "comfort food" don't normally appear in the same sentence, but this soup is the exception. It's filled with protein-packed lentils, veggies, and warm, savory spices, but what I love most about this particular soup is that it's nice and thick, so it feels substantial and filling.

To achieve the perfect consistency, simply remove a portion of the soup and blend it until it's almost smooth before adding it back to the pot. (You can use a standard blender or an immersion blender.) Works like a charm!

What spices go in lentil soup?

I use cumin and paprika, along with fresh thyme and parsley. I love this mix, but you can switch it up with different spices and herbs if you like. You could add a dash of cayenne pepper to crank up the heat or some turmeric if you like.

Why do you add vinegar to lentil soup?

Adding red wine vinegar to lentil soup at the end may seem unexpected, but it makes a big difference. The acidity of the vinegar brightens up the whole soup so it's perfectly balanced.

What kind of lentils are good in lentil soup?

I created this soup for brown lentils, which are easy to find in almost any grocery store. But it also works with green, yellow, or red lentils—though the textures and cooking times may vary. French lentils (also called puy lentils) are much smaller and firmer than brown lentils and don't make a good substitute for this particular soup recipe. If you use something other than brown lentils, check the package for the recommended cooking time.

Do you have to rinse lentils before cooking?

Yes, this is important! Sometimes you'll find dirt and debris, like tiny pebbles, hidden among lentils that you must remove before cooking. Just give the lentils a good rinse in a colander and sift through them to make sure no debris is left.

Do lentils need to be soaked before making soup?

Nope, there's no need to soak lentils before cooking. As long as you give them a good rinse, you're all set.

Can you freeze lentil soup?

Yes! Lentil soup will keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat the soup on the stove until boiling, splashing in a quarter of a cup of water if it's too thick. Lentil soup can also be reheated with two tablespoons of water, covered, in a microwave-safe bowl until bubbling, two to three minutes.

Can lentil soup be made in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Try this Instant Pot lentil soup, which is specially made for the appliance and uses more liquid than a stovetop version. Since liquid doesn’t evaporate in a sealed Instant Pot, the extra broth helps build pressure and keeps the lentils tender.

What goes well with lentil soup?

Lentil soup is a great meal on its own or with a simple accompaniment. Serve it with warm no-knead dinner rolls for dipping, add a grilled cheese or toasted sandwich for extra comfort, or balance things out with a simple spinach salad or roasted vegetables.

Is this lentil soup vegetarian and vegan?

Yes! This lentil soup is both vegetarian and vegan, meaning it’s made without meat, dairy, eggs, or any other animal products—just hearty lentils, vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s a cozy, plant-based soup that everyone at the table can enjoy. Find more vegetarian dinner recipes here.