Introduction: Proso Millet and Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. Proso millet, also known as white millet, is rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. Combined with lentils, vegetables, and savory spices, this soup makes for a wholesome meal that is both filling and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup proso millet
• 1 cup lentils (green, brown, or red)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse and Prepare Millet and Lentils:
   • Rinse the proso millet and lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add Spices and Liquids:
   • Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
   • Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, proso millet, lentils, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils and millet are tender.
5. Add Greens and Lemon Juice:
   • Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
   • Add the lemon juice and stir well.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Tips:

• For added protein, you can include cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less broth or water, depending on your preference.
• This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion: Proso Millet and Lentil Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a wholesome meal. The combination of millet, lentils, and vegetables provides a satisfying and balanced diet, while the spices and lemon juice add a delightful zest. Enjoy this hearty soup as a comforting lunch or dinner option, packed with nutrients and delicious flavors!

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