Butternut Squash And Lentil Soup

Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for the cooler months. This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthy, protein-packed goodness of lentils, creating a rich and nourishing meal. The addition of spices like cumin and coriander enhances the flavors, making this soup both satisfying and fragrant. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in large batches, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete and wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 cup dried lentils (red or green), rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
3. Add the Squash and Lentils: Add the diced butternut squash and rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir to coat the squash and lentils with the spices.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and squash are tender.
5. Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or transfer a portion to a blender and puree until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Its comforting warmth and rich texture make it a go-to recipe for those looking for a healthy, satisfying meal.