Monastery Lentil Soup
A hearty and aromatic lentil soup inspired by monastery recipes, featuring the earthiness of lentils combined with fresh herbs and a touch of sherry. Perfect for cozy gatherings or nourishing weeknights, this dish offers rich flavors with a simple, wholesome appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute olive oil, chopped onions, and chopped carrots for 5 minutes.
- Add all ingredients to a pot and cook for 45 minutes.
- Add cooking sherry at the end of cooking.
- Serve with Swiss cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using vegetable stock instead of water or a low-sodium broth. If you want a heartier soup, feel free to add diced potatoes or other root vegetables. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be a substitute, though fresh offers a brighter taste. You can also swap out lentils with other legumes like chickpeas for a different texture. Cooking sherry enhances the flavor, but you can omit it for a strict vegan version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Monastery Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a side salad like Israeli Salad for a refreshing complement. For a richer experience, top with shredded Swiss cheese just before serving. A drizzle of Olive Oil And Vinegar Salad Dressing can elevate the flavors even further. This soup also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable stock to maintain the soup's consistency, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monastery Lentil Soup contains roughly 390 calories, with 21g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (347% of the Daily Value), iron (206% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value). At about 390 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of lentils in this soup?
Yes, you can use other lentils like green or red lentils, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down, giving the soup a thicker texture, while green lentils hold their shape better. Adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and flavors improve over time. Prepare a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to store it in individual containers for easy access and reheating.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker! Sauté the onions and carrots first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will enhance the flavors and give you a wonderfully rich soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).