Easy Sopa De Lentejas Recipe – Tranditional Spanish Dish

Immerse yourself in the heart-warming, soul-nourishing tradition of homemade Sopa de Lentejas recipe. A legacy from Spanish cuisine, this lens-shaped pulse concoction radiates comfort in every spoonful, catapulting your senses to sun-kissed Iberian landscapes.

Succulent aromas wafting from a pot of simmering lentils and a symphony of robust vegetables create an irresistible draw. This is more than just a meal; it’s an emotional journey. It’s a healthy, hearty beacon of home-style cooking that carries tales of nurturing families across generations. 

Through this inviting lens, you’ll experience a delectable dance of flavors with an underlying warmth that feeds more than just your physical hunger. Drenched in tradition yet open to interpretation, our Sopa de Lentejas recipe ensures a wholesome, satisfying experience for all. 

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that provides sustenance and a heartfelt connection to Spain’s rich culinary culture. In essence, this lentil soup invites you to savor, enjoy, and truly live in each delightful moment.

What Is Sopa De Lentejas Recipe?

Sopa de Lentejas, or Lentil Soup, is a traditional Spanish dish brimming with wholesome goodness. It starts with a base of brown lentils, simmered until tender. 

A medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, sautéed in olive oil, are mixed in, along with seasonings such as garlic, cumin, and bay leaves. A splash of tomato sauce adds a tangy richness. 

The final result is a hearty, nourishing soup, perfect for a cozy dinner. Each spoonful is a heartwarming celebration of rustic, home-style cooking.

Can You Vary Sopa De Lentejas Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto: Substitute lentils with lower-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. Add more healthy fats, like avocado or olives, to keep it filling.
• Paleo: You can remove the lentils and add more vegetables or substitute with cubed butternut squash. Replace the chorizo with a paleo-friendly sausage.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your sausage and bacon are gluten-free, as some brands may use fillers or seasonings that contain gluten.
• Whole30: Remove the lentils and add in more compliant vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash. Make sure your bacon and sausage are Whole30 compliant.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the bacon and chorizo, and use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor. You can add more vegetables or include a vegan protein source like tofu or tempeh.

Recipe Directions 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot, and cook bacon until it starts to brown (5-8 minutes).
• Add olive oil, onion, and bell pepper, and cook until soft (5 minutes).
• Stir in garlic, tomatoes, sausage, and bay leaf, and cook (4 minutes).
• Add lentils and water, bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer until lentils are cooked (15-20 minutes).
• Add potatoes, continue simmering until cooked (12-15 minutes).

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

• Variations: Experiment with different types of lentils, such as green or red, for a variation in flavor and texture. Substitute chorizo with other proteins like chicken or ham.
• Add-Ons: Boost the nutritional content by adding in other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach. To add heat, incorporate spices such as chili powder or cayenne.
• Toppings: Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for creaminess. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors.
• Accompaniments: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier dish, serve over rice or quinoa.

Can I Make Sopa de Lentejas Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Add all ingredients except potatoes into the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• About an hour before serving, add in the cubed potatoes. They’ll need less time to cook, and this prevents them from becoming overly mushy.

Instant Pot

• Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, bacon, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Add the garlic, tomatoes, sausage, and bay leaf. Sauté for another couple of minutes.
• Add the lentils and water. Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes.
• Quickly release the pressure. Add the potatoes, seal the Instant Pot again, and set to high pressure for another 4 minutes.
• Allow the pressure to release for 10 minutes naturally, then quickly release any remaining pressure.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use store-bought broth for convenience in your Sopa de Lentejas. It can add a depth of flavor to the soup that water alone might not provide. When choosing a store-bought broth, look for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt level in your soup. Also, check the ingredients list to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences or restrictions.

If you have the time and resources, making your broth can be a great option. Homemade broth often has a richer flavor profile and allows you to utilize food scraps like vegetable peels and bones. Plus, you can customize it according to your taste preferences, and it’s free from preservatives and additives.

How To Serve?

• Fresh Bread: Serving Sopa de Lentejas with a slice of crusty bread is a popular choice. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the soup before serving. It adds a burst of fresh flavor and a touch of color. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.
• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad on the side for a lighter, balanced meal. The crispness of the salad contrasts nicely with the hearty soup.
• Avocado: For a creamy touch, add some sliced avocado on top. This not only adds a lovely creaminess but also some healthy fats.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese like Manchego or Cotija can add a wonderful flavor and richness. Note this is not suitable for vegan or dairy-free versions.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread, such as a French baguette or sourdough, is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast the hearty soup. Consider including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette.
• Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant can complement the soup’s robust flavors.
• Spanish Rice: A side of Spanish rice could complement the soup’s flavors, although this could be a heavier option since the soup is already quite hearty.
• Cheese Quesadilla: A simple cheese quesadilla could make a great side, especially for those who enjoy cheesy flavors.
• Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad with tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lime can contrast the warm soup.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Sopa de Lentejas freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much upon reheating.
• Make Ahead: You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for later use. Reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying meal.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Lentil Tacos: Mash the lentils slightly and use them as a filling for tacos. Add some fresh salsa, avocado, and cheese for a quick and easy meal.
• Lentil Salad: Cool the leftovers, then mix with diced fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette for a tasty lentil salad.
• Stuffed Peppers: Stuff bell peppers with the leftover soup and top with cheese. Bake until the peppers are soft, and the cheese is melted.
• Lentil Wrap: Use it as a hearty filling for wraps or burritos, adding some fresh lettuce and salsa.
• Pasta Sauce: Blend the leftover soup to create a rich, flavorful pasta sauce.
• Lentil Baked Eggs: Make wells in the heated leftover soup, crack in eggs, and bake until the eggs are cooked to your liking.

Nutrition Table