Description
This Hearty Mexican Lentil Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Loaded with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and bold spices, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and naturally vegan.
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and picked over
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Shredded cheese (if not vegan)
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add the diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add Corn and Cilantro:
- Stir in the corn kernels and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Finish with Lime Juice:
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, or shredded cheese.
Notes
- For extra protein, add black beans or pinto beans along with the lentils.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder and cayenne pepper.