French Lentil and Carrot Soup
why make this recipe
French Lentil and Carrot Soup is not just another soup; it is a warm, comforting bowl of nourishment. This recipe combines the earthiness of lentils with the natural sweetness of carrots, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. What makes it even better is the addition of rotisserie chicken, which brings depth and flavor, making the soup a complete meal.
The beauty of this soup lies in how easy it is to prepare. With basic ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip up a delicious bowl of goodness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to impress. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
This soup is perfect for chilly days, but it’s delicious any time of the year. You can enjoy it on a cozy evening at home or as part of a casual lunch with friends. Its versatility ensures it fits any occasion. Furthermore, it is a great way to sneak in some vegetables and protein, making it an excellent choice for kids and adults alike.
how to make French Lentil and Carrot Soup
Making French Lentil and Carrot Soup is straightforward, involving a few simple steps. To get started, gather your ingredients and follow the directions below.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Carrots
- 1 cup Dried Green Lentils
- 1 medium Shallot
- 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 4 cups Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 2 cups Rotisserie Chicken
- 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
Directions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the carrots into small cubes. This will help them cook faster and blend well with the soup.
- Finely dice the shallot. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces to make it easy to eat.
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Sauté Shallots:
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil is a great base for sautéing and adds extra flavor.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced shallots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are translucent. This process helps release their flavor into the soup.
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Add Carrots:
- Now, add the chopped carrots to the pot. Sauté them for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
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Incorporate Lentils and Seasonings:
- Stir in the dried lentils, along with the herbes de Provence, pepper, and kosher salt. Coat the lentils evenly with the sautéed vegetables, ensuring that they absorb the flavors.
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Add Chicken Broth:
- Gradually pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Using reduced-sodium broth helps control the saltiness of the soup.
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Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. This slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld and develop flavor.
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Add Chicken:
- After the lentils are cooked, add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot. Stir well and heat through for about 5 minutes. This step not only adds protein but also makes the soup more filling.
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Stir in Cream:
- For a creamy texture, stir in the heavy whipping cream. Let it heat for another 2-3 minutes.
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Taste and Adjust:
- Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
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Serve:
- Serve the soup hot and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers, making it a delightful meal.
how to serve French Lentil and Carrot Soup
Serving French Lentil and Carrot Soup is as simple as ladling it into bowls. For an eye-catching presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of black pepper can also add a nice touch. Don’t forget to provide a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
This soup can also be served as a starter or as part of a larger meal. If you’re entertaining guests, consider pairing it with a light salad or a charcuterie board for an elegant touch. The soup’s rich flavor can stand on its own, making it suitable for casual or formal dining alike.
how to store French Lentil and Carrot Soup
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup ahead of time, storing French Lentil and Carrot Soup is easy. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Here are some steps for storing:
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Refrigeration:
- Store the soup in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
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Freezing:
- For longer storage, the soup can be frozen. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. It can remain in the freezer for up to three months.
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Reheating:
- To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a splash of broth or water to thin it out.
tips to make French Lentil and Carrot Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of French Lentil and Carrot Soup can be achieved with a few handy tips:
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Choose Quality Lentils:
- Make sure to use fresh lentils. Old lentils can take longer to cook and may not soften as well.
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Customize Seasonings:
- Feel free to tweak the seasonings according to your taste. Adding a bit of garlic or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor.
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Make it Vegetarian:
- You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the rotisserie chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding more vegetables can make it heartier.
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Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Fresh carrots and shallots will provide better texture and flavor than canned or frozen ones.
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Enhance the Creaminess:
- If you want to take the creaminess up a notch, add a bit of cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
variation
While the classic version of French Lentil and Carrot Soup is delightful, consider trying these variations to mix things up:
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Add Other Vegetables:
- You can incorporate other vegetables like celery, zucchini, or bell peppers to vary the flavor profile and nutrition.
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Spice it Up:
- If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
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Use Different Proteins:
- Instead of rotisserie chicken, try adding cooked sausage, bacon, or turkey for different flavors.
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Lentil Variety:
- Mixing up the types of lentils can be fun. Try red lentils for a different texture; however, they cook faster than green lentils, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, French Lentil and Carrot Soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit for a while enhances the flavors. Simply cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider adding bay leaves while it simmers. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can make it taste even better. Just remember to remove any whole herbs before serving.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for reduced-sodium chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or beef broth for a richer flavor.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is gluten-free in its original form. Always check the labels of any added ingredients (like broth) to ensure they are gluten-free.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers will last in the fridge for up to four days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container for the best freshness.
French Lentil and Carrot Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a nourishing hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, healthy, and filling, ensuring you and your loved ones will enjoy every spoonful. Whether you follow the original recipe or explore the variations, it will surely become a favorite in your home!
