French Lentil Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a soul-warming bowl of comfort that checks all the boxes for flavor, heartiness, and veggie goodness, then this French green lentil soup is about to be your new best friend.

This French Lentil Soup is a labor of love for me. Its many exquisite flavors make it the kind of earthy, warm, and fragrant dish that beckons you to sit down and linger over it at the table.

Rich comfort melds with clean nutrition here, thanks to a lovely combo of sautéed olive oil, the holy trinity of soup onions, carrots, and celery, virtuous herbs (thyme, rosemary, and oregano), and the supremely soup-appropriate protein and detox powerhouse that is the French green lentil. Tomato-loving souls, you may pour a little of that luscious oxalate-free tomato juice from the can into the soup pot.

French Lentil Soup Recipe Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, it helps bring out the flavors.
• Onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the soup.
• Carrots: High in beta-carotene, they provide sweetness and nutrition.
• Celery: Adds crunch and a slightly peppery flavor.
• Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor and boosts immunity.
• Thyme: An aromatic herb that enhances the earthiness.
• French Green Lentils: High in protein and fiber, they offer a hearty texture.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds tanginess and depth with a touch of sweetness.

French Lentil Soup Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1/2 cups French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this French Lentil Soup Recipe

1. In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion, carrot, and celery, all diced, and cook gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stated vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.

3. Combine the French green lentils with the vegetables and herbs by stirring them well together in the pot.

4. Add the veggie broth and bring everything to a boil, then drop the heat down and let it simmer.

5. Include the juices and the can of diced tomatoes in the pot, and stir.

6. Taste the soup for salt and pepper, and add as necessary. Cover the pot partially with the lid and let the soup simmer gently for 30-40 minutes or so, until the lentils are tender.

7. When the lentils have finished cooking, take the bay leaf out of the pot.

8. Whisk in the balsamic vinegar and add extra salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.

9. Scoop the soup into bowls.

10. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.

French Lentil Soup Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
3. Chef’s knife (for dicing and mincing)
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Can opener (for diced tomatoes)
8. Whisk
9. Ladle (for serving)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use another type of lentil?A: This recipe is best made with French green lentils since they hold their shape well during cooking. Brown lentils can be used, but they may produce a different texture.
• Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for 3 days, at most. The flavors deepen over time.
• Q: Is it possible to freeze the soup?A: Absolutely, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Q: How can I make this soup spicy?A: To provide some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the vegetables.
• Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?A: Yes, fresh herbs can be used. Substitute with about three times the amount of fresh herbs for dried herbs.
• Q: Is this soup vegan?A: If you use vegetable broth, this can be considered a vegan soup.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables?A: Absolutely, you can include vegetables such as zucchini or spinach for added nutritional value and taste.

French Lentil Soup Recipe Substitutions and Variations

In place of olive oil, use 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or butter.
1 big shallot or leek instead of the large onion.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme instead of dried thyme
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped, instead of dried rosemary
If you can’t find any bay leaves, you can leave them out. However, this will make your dish taste a little different.

Pro Tips

1. Layer Flavors with Caramelization Before adding the garlic and herbs in step 2, allow the diced onions to get a slight caramelization by increasing the heat just until they turn golden. This enhances the depth of flavor in your soup.

2. Enhance Herb Flavor Crush the dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano between your fingers before adding them to the pot. This releases their natural oils, intensifying their flavor in the soup.

3. Cook Lentils Evenly For evenly cooked lentils, ensure they are rinsed and picked over for any debris. Also, try soaking them in water for about 1-2 hours before cooking. This can reduce cooking time and help them achieve a tender consistency.

4. Boost Umami with Tomato Paste Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste when you’re sautéing the garlic and herbs will boost the umami flavor profile of the soup, giving it a richer taste profile.

5. Finish with Freshness Just before serving, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale to add a pop of freshness and a nutritional boost. The residual heat of the soup will wilt the greens perfectly without overcooking them.