Tomato and Lentil Soup with Thyme

This delicious tomato and lentil soup with thyme has a robust flavor profile that is both hearty and comforting. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this soup combines the rich taste of stewed tomatoes with the earthy tones of lentils and a hint of thyme. The soup is not only easy to make but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy meal option. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, while tomatoes provide a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants. The thyme adds an aromatic flair that elevates the overall taste. It's perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a warming dish on a cold day or something light yet fulfilling. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful broth and enjoy a truly satisfying experience. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, this soup is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.2 liters chicken or vegetable broth
400 grams canned diced tomatoes
300 grams black or red lentils
1 finely chopped onion
1 carrot, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3-4 sprigs of thyme

Spices

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and black pepper to taste

To Serve

Toasted bread

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Heat the Oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until the vegetables start to soften and release their aroma.
Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Incorporate Lentils and Herbs: Stir in the lentils, ground nutmeg, ground coriander, and the sprigs of thyme. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat.
Cook Lentils: Allow the lentils to cook until they are nearly tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of lentils used.
Add Tomatoes: Once the lentils are almost cooked, add the canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Let them warm through and marry with the other ingredients for 3-4 minutes.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking.
Final Touch: If necessary, remove the thyme sprigs before serving to prevent an overly strong thyme flavor.
Serve with Bread: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, accompanied by toasted bread to enhance the meal.

Tips

Substitution: If fresh thyme is unavailable, use a teaspoon of dried thyme.
Broth Choice: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
Lentil Options: Red lentils cook faster and become softer, while black lentils hold their shape better.

Nutritions

Calories per serving: Approximately 250
Protein: 12 grams
Fats: 6 grams
Carbs: 35 grams

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier version.
Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary or parsley for a different aromatic twist.
Vegan Option: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a distinctive flavor while keeping it vegan.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the soup with a light salad for a complete meal.
Add grated Parmesan cheese on top for a finishing touch.

Best Places

Le Soupe Populaire - Enjoy an artisanal take on classic soups. Location: Prenzlauer Allee 242, Berlin, Germany.
The Soup Spoon - Offers an impressive variety of international soups. Location: 541 Orchard Road, #04-03 Liat Towers, Singapore.
Daily Soup - Famous for their fresh ingredients and creative recipes. Location: 383 Fifth Ave, New York City, USA.
Bar Tahar - A cozy spot with a wide range of hearty soups. Location: 46 Rue Chapon, Paris, France.
Garnish Cafe - Known for their innovative soup flavors. Location: 239 Burne Rd, Townsville, Australia.
Aubergine's Soup Kitchen - For a delightful soup experience. Location: 12 Bloemgracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Soupa Café - Offers comforting soups with a modern twist. Location: 55 High St, Manchester, UK.
Bean & Spice - This cafe provides hearty and ethnic-inspired soups. Location: 1 Vila Nova Conceição, São Paulo, Brazil.
Slurp Society - Specializes in versatile soup options. Location: Štefanova ulica, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Brodo Broth Company - Best known for bone broth-based soups. Location: 200 W 57th St, New York, USA.