Lentil Soup Recipe

Traditional lentil soup, which originated in the Middle East, is typically made with red lentils along with other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes and onions, but there are a number of variations. The highly nutritious brew is considered emergency food because it is relatively inexpensive, very filling, and packed with nutrients.

Jacob's brother, Esau, was willing to give up his birthright for one bowl of lentil soup. The Lord Jesus Christ and the disciples ate a variety these potent staples along with onions, garlic, and beans. So do your body a favor and try a batch of lentil soup.

This first recipe is the classic lentil soup. It costs less than five dollars a batch and is full of nutrition, which is why it's considered emergency food. When money gets tight, a pot of lentil soup can feed a whole family.

Classic Lentil Soup with Cumin:

- 1 pound of red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- salt/pepper to taste

In a large pot, saute garlic and onions in the olive oil until nice and tender then add water, lentils, cumin, tomatoes, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, stir, cover, lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally then add the lemon juice.

Lentil Soup With Cumin:

- 2 cups of chopped red lentils
- 3 potatoes, chopped
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 quarts of stock (meat or vegetable)
- 2 teaspoon of cumin
- salt/pepper to taste

In a large pot, fry the onions and fennel until nice and brown then add all of the remaining ingredients. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 45 minutes or so, stirring occasionally. Move the pot off the burner and puree the amount that will fit into your processor then put it back in the pot and heat it. You may need to add a little water if the soup is thicker than you like.

Lentil soup is one of those soups that makes a cold, wintry day warm and cozy, and cumin gives it a unique Middle Eastern flare.