Your guests will love this Swiss chard lentil soup recipe
Swiss chard lentil soup is a hearty, nutritious dish perfect for any season. Originating from the Mediterranean region, this soup combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the vibrant, slightly bitter taste of Swiss chard. It's a beloved recipe among vegetarians and health enthusiasts alike for its rich nutrient profile and fulfilling nature. With no further ado, let's get cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this wholesome soup, you will need one cup of red lentils (washed and drained), two large Swiss chard leaves (chopped), one large onion (finely chopped), two cloves of garlic (minced), two medium carrots, (diced), one teaspoon of ground cumin, one-half teaspoon of ground coriander, four cups of vegetable broth, two tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Preparing the vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Saute them until they are soft and translucent but not browned. This process should take about five minutes. Ensuring that these base ingredients are well-cooked is key to releasing their flavors into the soup.
Cooking lentils with spices
Add the red lentils to the pot, along with a teaspoon of ground cumin and half a teaspoon of ground coriander. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the lentils are well coated with the spices and onion-garlic mixture. Cook for two minutes, then add in the diced carrots. This step is key to infusing the lentils with the aromatic spices, thereby enhancing their flavor.
Adding broth and simmering
Add four cups of vegetable broth to the pot, then bring to a boil. Once it's boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. It's important to stir the mixture occasionally during this time to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Incorporating Swiss chard
As the lentils near doneness, stir in the Swiss chard leaves. Adjust the flavor with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Allow the soup to simmer for five more minutes, or until the chard is wilted yet maintains its bright green color. This step ensures that the leaves are cooked through but still vibrant, adding a fresh texture and color to your dish.
