SMOKY LENTIL AND TOMATO COMFORT BOWL
Smoky Lentil And Tomato Comfort Bowl brings together simple ingredients with bold flavour in a heartwarming and nourishing soup. Red lentils create a naturally thickened base, while juicy diced tomatoes add brightness and acidity. A hint of smoked paprika weaves through the broth, giving it a warm and subtly spicy depth that transforms this minimal recipe into something memorable. Olive oil rounds out the texture and lends richness to each spoonful without overwhelming the lightness of the dish. This bowl is ideal for lunch or a small, satisfying dinner, especially when you need something quick and wholesome. Naturally high in fibre and plant protein, it supports digestion and energy without heaviness. Pair it with a slice of rustic bread or enjoy it on its own for a balanced and easy-to-digest meal. It’s the perfect blend of clean eating and deep with comforting flavour.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall, Winter, Ramadan, New Year’s Day
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, High Fibre, Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Wheat / Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Smoky Lentil And Tomato Comfort Bowl:
- ¼ cup red lentils
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 231.7 kilocalories
- Fat: 5.5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35.2 grams
- Sugar: 4.2 grams
- Sodium: 177.3 milligrams
- Fibre: 7.7 grams
- Protein: 12.9 grams
- Calcium: 66.6 milligrams
- Iron: 4.0 milligrams
- Potassium: 578.5 milligrams
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Smoky Lentil And Tomato Comfort Bowl:
- Rinse The Lentils: Place ¼ cup red lentils in a fine‑mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Heat Oil And Bloom Spice: In a small saucepan, warm 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Stir in ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika and cook for 30 seconds to release its smoky aroma.
- Add Tomatoes: Add ½ cup diced tomatoes, stirring to coat in the spiced oil. Cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften and deepen in flavour.
- Add Lentils And Broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, then pour in 1 cup vegetable broth. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer Gently: Bring to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the soup has slightly thickened.
- Season And Serve: Remove from heat, season with sea salt and a crack of black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
15 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Smoky Lentil And Tomato Comfort Bowl:
- Bloom The Paprika: Heating paprika in oil brings out its smoky aroma and deeper notes.
- Keep Stirring: Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent lentils from sticking to the bottom.
- Control Consistency: Add extra broth or hot water at the end if a thinner soup is desired.
- Use Canned Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes are out of season, use high-quality canned diced tomatoes.
- Taste Before Salting: Many broths already contain salt, season at the end to avoid over-salting.
VARIATIONS
- Add Garlic: Sauté a minced garlic clove with paprika for extra depth.
- Make It Creamy: Blend half the soup or stir in a tablespoon of plant-based cream.
- Add Greens: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the final 2 minutes of cooking.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
- Include Grains: Add a tablespoon of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture and satiety.
- Enhance Herbs: Stir in fresh coriander or parsley just before serving for a fresh contrast.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze soup in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Leave headspace for expansion.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen.
- Batch Cooking: Easily double or triple the recipe and portion out for future meals. This soup travels well and is great for packed lunches.