Healthy Enjoyment Recipe For The Cold Season: Lentil And Vegetable Soup

As the cold season settles in, our bodies crave heat and nourishment to ward off the chill and keep our immune systems robust. This is the perfect time to embrace hearty, heartening recipes packed with nutritious ingredients to boost your health while satisfying your taste buds.

Here’s a healthy enjoyment recipe that’s both delicious and functional for the cold season: Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils (red or green)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare The Base

Heat the olive oil in a great pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices

Stir in the turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika. Allow the spices to toast lightly with the vegetables for about a minute, attractive their flavors.

Combine Ingredients

Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, potatoes, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Decrease the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.

Add Greens

Mixing in the kale or spinach and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches

Squeeze in the lemon juice for a burst of brightness. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect For The Cold Season

1. Immune-Boosting Ingredients:

• Turmeric is a powerhouse spice with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Garlic is recognized for its antibacterial and antiviral qualities, making it a great ally through the cold season.

2. Rich In Nutrients:

• Lentils provide a high amount of protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.
• Kale and spinach are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and bone health.

3. Comforting And Hydrating:

• A deep bowl of soup is not only heartening but also helps maintain hydration during the colder months when we might drink less water.

Variations:

1. Add protein: For added heartiness, include cooked chicken or tofu.
2. Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Change the greens: Swap kale for Swiss chard or collard greens if preferred.

This Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and flexible to suit your tastes. Curl up with a bowl of this wholesome delight, and you’ll feel cozy, nourished, and ready to hold the cold term with a healthy glow.