Description
This Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, and warming spices like cumin and chili powder, this soup is simmered to perfection and topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro for added texture and taste. It’s a wholesome plant-based recipe that’s easy to prepare and ideal for those looking for a comforting, vegan-friendly dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Toppings
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Tortilla strips for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear to remove any impurities and debris.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Spices and Lentils: Stir in the rinsed lentils, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the spices and coat the lentils.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently. Add the corn and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt, pepper, or extra spices if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Rinsing the lentils before cooking ensures a cleaner taste and removes dust or debris.
- You can substitute corn with other vegetables like diced zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and then stir it back into the pot.
- Use baked or lightly fried tortilla strips to keep the soup healthier.
- For extra protein, add cooked black beans or kidney beans.
