Oh, Halloween! It’s that magical time of year when ghouls and goblins come out to play, and there’s something wonderfully festive in the air, isn’t there? One of my favorite ways to celebrate, aside from dressing up in ridiculous costumes and binge-watching spooky films, is by making this delightfully eerie and fulfilling Witch’s Brew Lentil Soup.
This soup has a rich history for me; it reminds me of the annual Halloween parties at my friend Sarah’s house. We used to gather around, hoping to catch a glimpse of something supernatural while sipping on this potion-like soup. With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly autumn night while telling ghost stories (or, you know, just keeping to the classics like Hocus Pocus).
So, are you ready to conjure up this delicious cauldron of goodness? Let’s get brewing!
What’s in Witch’s Brew Lentil Soup?
Green Lentils: These tiny powerhouses are the base of our soup! They hold their shape beautifully when cooked, making them perfect for creating a hearty texture. I love using organic green lentils for their earthy flavor.
Onions: The aromatic backbone of this soup, onions bring sweetness as they caramelize. I usually reach for yellow onions because they become wonderfully sweet when cooked.
Carrots: These vibrant veggies add a slight sweetness and a bright pop of color to our brew. Fresh ones are key here; I often opt for organic for the best flavor.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and a refreshing taste—a must in most soups! It helps create that classic mirepoix mix that elevates any dish.
Garlic: My secret weapon! Fresh garlic infuses the soup with such depth and aroma. Go for the real deal, don’t even dream of using that jarred stuff!
Vegetable Broth: I prefer low-sodium vegetable broth for this recipe. It allows all the flavors from the veggies to shine through without being overly salty.
Spinach: This is my little twist! It adds an extra layer of green and a nutritional boost. Fresh is best, but frozen will do in a pinch.
Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs pack a fragrant punch. Thyme brings an earthy warmth while bay leaves add a subtle depth.
Cumin and Coriander: These spices give the soup a lightly spiced taste with an inviting aroma. I love spices, so don’t skimp on these!
Is Witch’s Brew Lentil Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This soup is a powerhouse of nutrition.
Lentils: They are not only a great plant-based protein but also high in fiber, making them fantastic for your digestion. Plus, they’re rich in iron, which is ideal during those frosty months when we need that extra boost.
Carrots: These colorful roots bring not just a sweet flavor but are also packed with beta-carotene, which supports our immune system—handy during the cold season!
Spinach: Let’s not forget this dark leafy green! It’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron and calcium.
But remember, while this soup is nutritious, moderation is key! Make sure to pair it with a whole grain like quinoa or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup green lentils (rinsed)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large yellow onion (diced)
– 2 medium carrots (diced)
– 2 celery stalks (diced)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper to taste
*Serves: 4-6*
How to Make Witch’s Brew Lentil Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent—about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the lentils, cumin, coriander, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the spices become fragrant.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness!
*hocus pocus… it’s ready to serve!*
Stirring Up Some Tips
– Feel free to throw in any extra veggies you have on hand—zucchini or bell peppers would be lovely.
– For an even heartier soup, add in some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes.
– If you want to make this soup more filling, consider serving it over rice or quinoa.
– Leftovers? Perfect for storing! It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for future spells—err, meals.
As the chilly air rolls in and the jack-o’-lanterns begin to glow, I encourage you to brew a pot of this unforgettable Witch’s Brew Lentil Soup. It’s not only delicious but bound to conjure up some warm memories and maybe a few laughs with friends and family. So put on your witch’s hat, grab that wooden spoon, and let the magic of cooking guide you! Enjoy and share your bubbling creations with me!
