Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups green lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bunch fresh chard, about 100 grams, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the lentils and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
- In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a small pan and add the chopped onion and garlic. Saute until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the chard and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked onion, garlic, and chard to the lentils along with the cumin and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the flavors blend and the soup reaches the desired thickness.
- Serve hot with a side of your choice, such as quinoa or bread.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 250 per serving (based on using 1 cup cooked chard and other standard ingredients)
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 8g (Based on estimated values; actual nutritional content may vary)
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is rich in fiber and protein, making it a great vegetarian option.
- The combination of lentils and chard offers a unique flavor profile with a hint of Middle Eastern spices.
- The soup is hearty and warm, perfect for colder weather or as a comforting meal.
User Comments:
- "This soup was delicious! The combination of flavors was unexpected but absolutely perfect." - John Doe
- "I love how hearty and filling this soup is. It's a great vegetarian option for my family." - Jane Smith
- "The chard added a nice texture and flavor to the lentils. This will be a regular in our home." - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh chard if possible for best flavor and texture. If not available, you can use spinach as a substitute.
- Adjust the seasoning, especially the salt, according to your preference.
- Lentils may vary in thickness, so adjust cooking time accordingly. Overcooking lentils may result in a thicker soup texture.
