Hearty Mushroom and Lentil Soup

Looking for a soup that's both nutritious and satisfying? This Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup is the answer! Combining the earthy flavours of mushrooms with the hearty goodness of lentils and vegetables, this soup is a perfect meal for any season. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delicious dish.

In the world of comforting soups, a combination of lentils and mushrooms stands out for its rich flavour and nutritional benefits. My Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup brings together these ingredients in a harmonious blend that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrient intake or simply enjoy a delicious, hearty soup, this recipe is a must-try.

THE KEY INGREDIENTS AND THEIR HEALTH BENEFITS.

Key Components

Red Lentils: These are packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients like iron and folate, making them a fantastic addition to any meal.

Mushrooms: Known for their earthy flavour, mushrooms are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and onions add to the nutrient density of the soup while providing a variety of textures and flavours.

Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness to the soup, along with a boost of vitamins A and C.

MUSHROOM AND LENTIL SOUP RECIPE.

Serves: 4 people

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 40 mins

1 tbsp coconut oil

1 onion, diced

2 carrots, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 potatoes, peeled and chopped

¼ cup red lentils

4 ¼ cups (1.5L) stock (chicken or vegetable)

1 cup mushrooms, chopped

1 tbsp tomato paste

STEP-BY-STEP COOKING INSTRUCTIONS.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, chop the carrots and potatoes, mince the garlic, and chop the mushrooms. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.

Step 4: Incorporate the Lentils and Mushrooms

Add the red lentils and chopped mushrooms to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Add the Stock and Tomato Paste

Pour in the stock and add the tomato paste. Stir well to ensure the tomato paste is fully incorporated into the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup!

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

(Per Serving)

Calories: 180

Protein: 7g

Fat: 5g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fibre: 7g

Sugar: 5g

Sodium: 500mg

Iron: 2mg

Vitamin A: 4500 IU

Vitamin C: 15mg

TIPS FOR A PERFECT LENTIL AND MUSHROOM MEDLEY SOUP.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables and mushrooms you can find for the best flavour and nutritional value.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less stock or let the soup simmer uncovered for a longer time. For a thinner consistency, add more stock or a splash of water.

• Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

• Freeze Friendly: This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop.

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS.

This Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients that support your overall health. Here’s a closer look at the benefits:

• Protein and Fibre: Lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein and dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full.

• Vitamins and Minerals: The variety of vegetables and mushrooms add essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron.

• Antioxidants: Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage and support a healthy immune system.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of mushrooms? A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of mushrooms to enhance the flavour and texture of the soup. Button mushrooms are a classic choice for their mild taste and tender texture. Swiss brown mushrooms add a deeper, earthier flavour, while shiitake mushrooms bring a rich, umami punch to the soup. For a gourmet twist, try adding some sliced portobello mushrooms or a mix of edible wild mushrooms for a robust and aromatic experience. **If using wild mushrooms, please ensure they are safely and correctly identified as edible varieties to avoid potential poisoning

Q: Can I use different types of lentils? A: Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but keep in mind that they might require a longer cooking time than red lentils.

Q: Is there a vegan alternative for this soup? A: This soup is already vegan if you use vegetable stock. If you prefer a different fat, you can use olive oil instead of coconut oil.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, zucchini, or capsicums for extra flavour and nutrients.

Q: Can I make this soup spicier? A: Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chilli to the sautéed onions and garlic for an extra kick.

Q: What can I use instead of tomato paste? A: If you don't have tomato paste, you can use a couple of tablespoons of tomato sauce or a small chopped tomato as a substitute.

There you have it – a nutritious, hearty, and easy-to-make Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup! This soup is a wonderful blend of flavours and textures, perfect for any meal. Whether you're looking to boost your nutrition or simply enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a favourite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to this delicious, healthy delight!

Happy cooking and I hope you enjoy the wholesome goodness of this Lentil Mushroom Medley Soup just as much as I do!