Cut costs, not comfort with lentil soup

When times feel uncertain and grocery prices make you wince, there’s comfort in knowing that a wholesome, hearty meal doesn’t have to cost much. This lentil soup is proof that good food can still be simple, satisfying and kind to your budget.

Lentil soup is one of those beautiful, budget-friendly meals that has been feeding families for centuries and checks every box: It’s inexpensive, easy to prepare and full of plant-based protein and fiber.

It freezes beautifully, too, which makes it a lifesaver during the upcoming holiday madness. Make a big pot now, freeze some for later and you’ve got instant comfort waiting in your freezer — no drive-through required.

This base recipe is delicious as-is, but the beauty of lentils is how easily they adapt. Add a handful of sausage if you like, stir in extra veggies or season it with herbs and spices to change the flavor profile from classic to global.

Optional Add-Ins For Variety

Smoky Sausage: Sauté 1 (13 ounce) smoked sausage, like kielbasa, with the vegetables. Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme.

Easy Being Green: Add 1 (8 to 10 ounce) package of mixed power greens such as kale, chard or spinach. Top with avocado and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Mediterranean: Add 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning and 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans. Top with Parmesan.

Curry Comfort: Stir in 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon turmeric and finish with a squeeze of lime and a swirl of coconut milk.

Southwest Style: Add 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1/2 tablespoon cumin and 1 (14.5 ounce) can fiesta style corn. Top with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices.

Spoonful Of Comfort

When you need an easy, nourishing meal that keeps you grounded through the holiday hustle, lentil soup is your new best friend. It’s hearty, healthy and humble — proof that comfort food doesn’t have to cost much.

And here’s a little secret: Every bowl you freeze now is a gift to your future self. On a cold blustery night, when the house is busy and you’re too tired to cook, you’ll have homemade comfort ready in minutes.

Very Versatile Lentil Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

4 carrots, chopped

3 celery ribs, chopped

3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups broth (vegetable, chicken or beef)

1 1/2 cups dry green or brown lentils

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups fresh chopped spinach, optional

Procedure

Stovetop Method: In a large pot, sauté onion, carrot and celery in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for one minute more. Stir in lentils, tomatoes, broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 35 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in spinach until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Instant Pot: Follow sauté instructions as in stovetop directions up to “bring to a boil.” Cook on manual or pressure cook for 9 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes. Add spinach after cooking.

Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients, except spinach, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in spinach at the end.