Thereās something undeniably comforting about wrapping your hands around a steaming bowl of soup on a cold, rainy day. Here in the UK, where grey skies and chilly afternoons are all too familiar, nothing beats a warm, nourishing bowl of tomato lentil soup. Itās wholesome, filling, and packed with the kind of rich, homely flavours that make you feel instantly cosy.
I remember one particularly frosty afternoon, the wind howling through the windows, when I turned to my trusty tomato lentil soup recipe. Every spoonful felt like a comforting hugāearthy lentils paired with rich, tangy tomatoes and subtle spices. The best part? Itās an easy, budget-friendly dish that anyone can master, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out.
Ready to bring some warmth into your kitchen? Letās dive into why this dish should be your go-to for chilly UK evenings.
Table of Contents
Why Youāll Love This Tomato Lentil Soup
This isnāt just another soup recipeāitās a perfect blend of comfort, nutrition, and simplicity. Hereās why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
š„ Nutrient-Packed Goodness
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fibre, making this dish as healthy as it is filling. They’re also packed with essential minerals like iron and magnesium, which help support overall health.
š° Budget-Friendly Meal
If you’re looking for affordable, hearty meals, this soup ticks all the boxes. Lentils and tinned tomatoes are cost-effective pantry staples, making this recipe ideal for meal prep and family dinners without breaking the bank.
š½ļø Versatile and Customisable
You can tweak the ingredients based on whatās in season or what youāve got at home. Add extra vegetables for more bulk, toss in some shredded chicken for extra protein, or spice it up with a pinch of chilli flakes.
š Quick and Easy to Make
With just a handful of simple ingredients and 40 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Recipe Highlights
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 people
- Dietary: Vegan, gluten-free, high-protein
Ingredients Youāll Need
Hereās what youāll need to create a perfect bowl of comforting tomato lentil soup:
- š„ 1 large carrot, finely chopped
- š§ 1 medium onion, diced
- š§ 2 cloves garlic, minced
- š 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
- š„« 1 tablespoon tomato purĆ©e
- š„£ 150g red lentils (rinsed and drained)
- š« 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- šæ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- š¶ļø Ā½ teaspoon paprika (optional for a little heat)
- š§ Salt and pepper to taste
- š« 1 tablespoon olive oil
- š„ 1 litre vegetable stock (or water with stock cubes)
- š Juice of half a lemon (optional for a fresh kick)
- šæ Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish (optional)
How to Make Tomato Lentil Soup
Step 1: SautƩ the Base Flavours
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped carrot, and sautƩ for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, until fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of your soup.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the tomato purƩe, cumin, thyme, and paprika. Let the spices cook for a minute or two to release their flavours before adding the tinned chopped tomatoes. Give everything a good stir.
Step 3: Add Lentils and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the rinsed red lentils and stir well.
Lower the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The lentils will soften and start breaking down, thickening the soup beautifully.
Step 4: Blend for Your Desired Texture
If you prefer a smooth texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender until itās creamy. For a chunkier consistency, blend only half or leave it as is.
Step 5: Final Touches
Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty lift. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Soup Every Time
- Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent a gummy texture.
- Adjust thickness by adding more vegetable stock if the soup becomes too thick.
- Add heat with a pinch of chilli flakes if you love a spicy kick.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of tinned for a lighter, fresher taste in summer months.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients:
| Ingredient | Swap/Addition | Flavour Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Red lentils | Green or brown lentils | Holds shape better, chunkier texture |
| Carrots | Sweet potatoes | Sweeter flavour, creamier texture |
| Cumin | Smoked paprika | Earthy and smoky depth |
| Vegetable stock | Chicken stock | Richer, non-vegan option |
| Parsley | Fresh coriander | Brighter, citrus-like freshness |
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Add a splash of water or stock when reheating to maintain consistency.
Freezing
- Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the hob or microwave.
Reheating
- Gently heat the soup over low heat on the hob.
- Add a little extra stock or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Perfect Pairings for Tomato Lentil Soup
- Cheese Toastie ā The ultimate British comfort food pairing.
- Crusty Sourdough Bread ā Perfect for soaking up every last drop.
- Simple Green Salad ā A light, refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Baked Sweet Potato Wedges ā Adds a touch of sweetness and extra nutrition.
A Hug in a Bowl
This tomato lentil soup recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting, nourishing, and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just need a warm bowl of comfort on a cold UK evening, this dish delivers every time.
Give it a go, and donāt be afraid to make it your own with added spices, veggies, or a generous squeeze of lemon. If you enjoyed this recipe, why not try my other comforting soup recipes? š
Happy cooking, and stay cosy! āš²
Tomato Lentil Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for cooking the soup)
- 1 immersion blender (optional, for blending the soup)
- 1 chopping board and knife (for preparing vegetables)
Materials
- 1 large carrot finely chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 400 g tin of chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato purƩe
- 150 g red lentils rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Ā½ teaspoon paprika optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 litre vegetable stock or water with stock cubes
- Juice of half a lemon optional
- Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish optional
Instructions
- SautƩ the Base Flavours:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped carrot, sautƩ for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in tomato purĆ©e, cumin, thyme, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the spices’ flavours. Add the tinned chopped tomatoes and stir well.
- Add Lentils and Simmer:
- Pour in vegetable stock, bring to a gentle boil. Add red lentils and stir. Lower heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are soft.
- Blend for Desired Texture:
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender for a smooth consistency, or leave it chunky for texture.
- Final Touches:
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander.
Notes
Adjust thickness with more vegetable stock if needed.
Add chilli flakes for a spicier version.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Lentil Soup:
1. Are lentils good in tomato soup?
Yes, lentils are a brilliant addition to tomato soup, especially for those in the UK who enjoy hearty, comforting meals. Lentils add a lovely earthy flavour and a rich, satisfying texture. Theyāre also packed with protein and fibre, making the soup more filling and nutritious. Red lentils work particularly well because they soften quickly and blend into the soup for a creamy consistency. This pairing is perfect for colder British weather or as a wholesome lunch option.
2. Can you put tinned tomatoes in lentil soup?
Absolutely! Tinned tomatoes are a convenient and flavourful addition to lentil soup. In the UK, tinned tomatoes (chopped or whole) are a pantry staple and are perfect for adding depth, richness, and acidity to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, as some tinned tomatoes can be slightly sweet or tangy depending on the brand. You can also enhance the flavour with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a uniquely British twist.
3. Is lentil soup really good for you?
Yes, lentil soup is incredibly healthy. Itās high in protein, fibre, iron, and essential vitamins like folate and B6, making it a great choice for those following vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based diets in the UK. The fibre content helps with digestion and can lower cholesterol levels, while the protein keeps you feeling full longer. Plus, lentils are affordable and widely available in UK supermarkets, making this a budget-friendly and nutritious meal option.
4. Do tomatoes stop lentils from cooking?
Tomatoes can slow down the cooking process of lentils due to their acidity. Acidic ingredients like tomatoes can toughen the outer skin of lentils, making them take longer to soften. A good tip for making lentil soup is to cook the lentils separately or add the tomatoes only after the lentils have softened to your liking. This ensures a smooth, even texture without affecting the cooking time too much.
5. Why do you add vinegar to lentil soup?
A splash of vinegar (such as balsamic, red wine, or apple cider vinegar) is often added to lentil soup to brighten the flavours and add a subtle tang. In UK recipes, adding vinegar also helps balance the earthy taste of lentils and the acidity of tomatoes, creating a more rounded, flavourful dish. It can also help enhance the soupās overall aroma and give it a slightly sharp, appetising kick.
6. Do I need to rinse lentils for soup?
Yes, itās best to rinse lentils before adding them to your soup. Even though pre-packaged lentils sold in UK supermarkets are usually clean, rinsing removes any dust or small debris left from processing. It also helps remove excess starch, preventing the soup from becoming too thick or cloudy. Simply place the lentils in a sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear.