Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re making a hearty and nutritious Millet and Lentil Soup. This soup is perfect for a comforting meal, packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors. Let’s dive into this warm and satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- For the Soup:
- 1 cup millet, rinsed
- 1 cup lentils (red or green), rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the millet and lentils under cold water.
- Chop all the vegetables: onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Spice it Up:
- Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and paprika to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Combine Millet and Lentils:
- Add the rinsed millet and lentils to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables and spices.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the vegetable broth or water.
- Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
- Simmer:
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the millet and lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the Millet and Lentil Soup into bowls.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, tangy finish.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for extra protein.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or potatoes.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in individual portions for an easy meal option. Thaw and reheat as needed.
This Millet and Lentil Soup is a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Its rich, comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it a family favorite. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and nutritious soup!
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