Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe
Cheap Dinner, Healthy Meal
By Kathy Wilson
We are all looking for cheap meals these days, but that doesn't mean
you have to skimp on good food! Often all it takes is a change in the
way we look at food to make it exciting.
I have always LOVED lentil soup, but after awhile, it got kinda…well,
boring. Here is a recipe twist that adds that spark of flavor that makes
all the difference.
Lentils are very inexpensive, and combined with the rice in this recipe,
make a complete protein. They are high in fiber and higher in protein by
weight than beef. Related to the pea, they are easily digested. Add a
simple salad, some crusty bread or crackers and a glass of red wine for
a fantastic dinner for just pennies.
Brown the chopped vegetables in the oil until translucent. Rinse the
lentils, and remove any inorganic matter or chaff that sometimes ends up
in the bag. Add the lentils, the rice and the broth to the sautéed
vegetables. Season to taste with thyme, salt and pepper. Simmer covered
for 45 minutes, checking often. Add water or broth if it boils down too
fast. It should be a thick soup, but not like stew. Before serving, add
the wine or balsamic vinegar. Simmer another 5 minutes. Balsamic vinegar
can also be served as a condiment to be added to individual dishes to
taste.
Serves 4-6
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