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A closer shot of a spoonful of Spanish lentil soup, with bits of everything.
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Spanish Lentil Soup Recipe

Spanish Lentil Soup is an easy soup recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.  Made with earthy lentils, vegetables, and traditional Spanish spices, this classic soup is perfect for chilly days and a staple in Spanish households.  Simply delicious!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Spanish
Servings: 3
Calories: 478kcal
Author: Neriz

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried green lentils (about 2 & 1/2 cups pre-cooked), rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or chopped thinly
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped into small bits
  • 3/4 to 1 teaspoon sweet pimentón (Spanish paprika)
  • 1/2 cup sherry (like Amontillado)
  • 2 pieces bouillon cubes, chicken
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 piece dried bay leaf
  • 5 to 6 slices Jamón Serrano, half chopped about half-inch width, while half for serving
  • salt, to season

Instructions

  • Place a medium (to large) saucepan over medium-high heat, then add olive oil.
  • Once it's ready, saute the garlic and onion until they soften.
  • Add the Spanish paprika and bouillon cubes, and cook for 2 minutes.  Try to mix continuously to avoid burning, and lower the heat if you think it's necessary.
  • Add the carrots and the bits of Jamón Serrano; then mix.
  • Pour 3.5 cups of water, then add the bay leaf, crushed tomatoes, sherry, and rinsed lentils.
  • Mix, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil.
  • Lower the heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the lentils or vegetables are cooked.
  • Add the vinegar and salt, then stir.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired, then remove the saucepan from the heat.
  • Transfer your Spanish lentil soup into bowls --- serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Cook's Tip:  If using pre-cooked green lentils, simmer the soup for a shorter time, only until the carrots are tender, then taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Refer to the post for more tips and suggestions.

Nutrition

Calories: 478kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 166mg | Potassium: 911mg | Fiber: 22g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3516IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 6mg