Comforting Slow Cooker Lentil Soup – 5 Ingredients, Easy Prep

This Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is a cozy, nourishing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with protein-rich lentils, hearty vegetables, and flavorful spices, it’s a dish that fills you up without weighing you down. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make. All you need to do is toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let the magic happen. The best part? It’s both vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for various diets. Whether you're meal prepping or craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or on its own for a wholesome, satisfying meal!

What Makes This Recipe So Good?

• Hands-off cooking – Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Hearty and filling – Packed with protein-rich lentils and nutritious veggies.
• Budget-friendly – Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients.
• Vegan and gluten-free – Perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
• Meal prep friendly – Great for leftovers or make-ahead meals.
• Customizable – Add your favorite spices or veggies to suit your taste.
• One-pot wonder – Minimal clean-up with everything cooked in the slow cooker.

Key Ingredients

• Lentils – The star of the soup, packed with protein and fiber.
• Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
• Celery – Provides a savory, aromatic base.
• Onion – Essential for flavor depth.
• Garlic – Enhances the savory notes of the soup.
• Diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and richness.
• Vegetable broth – The flavorful liquid base.
• Spices – Cumin, thyme, and bay leaves for warmth and complexity.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and a subtle flavor.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, balancing the flavors.

Chefs Helpful Tips

• Rinse the lentils – Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris and improve texture.
• Sauté aromatics first – For deeper flavor, sauté the onion, garlic, and celery in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Use low-sodium broth – Control the salt levels by using low-sodium vegetable broth, then adjust seasoning to taste.
• Layer the ingredients – Place heartier vegetables like carrots and celery at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the lentils – Check for doneness toward the end of the cooking time to avoid mushy lentils.
• Add greens at the end – Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes for added nutrients and color.
• Blend for a creamy texture – For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender.
• Adjust seasoning last – Always taste and adjust seasoning after the soup has finished cooking for the best flavor balance.
• Freeze for later – This soup freezes well, so make extra and store in freezer-safe containers for future meals.

Recipes You Must Try…

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• Easy Slow Cooker Pot Roast Recipe – Tender and Flavorful Dinner
• Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala – Perfect Weeknight Dinner Recipe