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Crockpot Lentil Soup

This hearty crockpot lentil soup is a comforting, no-fuss dish that comes together with minimal effort. Main ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and spices meld slowly in the slow cooker, resulting in a thick, earthy soup with tender lentils and a rich, smoky aroma. It’s a cozy, nourishing meal perfect for busy days or relaxing weekends.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots chopped small
  • 2 stalks celery chopped small
  • 1 cup brown lentils rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • a pinch chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for finishing
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice

Equipment

  • Large slow cooker
  • Sharp knife
  • Chopping board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cup

Method
 

  1. Start by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a splash of olive oil until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma deepen and the vegetables soften slightly.
  3. Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your large slow cooker. Add the chopped carrots and celery, rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir everything together to combine well.
  4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld into a rich, earthy aroma. The soup will thicken slightly and develop a hearty texture.
  5. Once the cooking time is up, open the lid and stir in a tablespoon of olive oil for richness. Squeeze in the juice of a lemon to brighten the flavors, then give it a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Allow the soup to rest for about 10 minutes off the heat so the flavors settle and the soup thickens just a bit more. Ladle into bowls, and enjoy this warm, comforting, earthy lentil soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs if desired.

Notes

You can add greens like spinach or kale during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition. For a creamier texture, switch to red lentils or blend part of the soup after cooking.