Lentil Soup

by Arielle J on March 25, 2013

On a cold winters night,
this is a perfect way to warm
up.

Or, as we transition to Spring,
this is also a great recipe to
warm up our digestive system,
prevent Spring colds and help
cleanse your body!

Benefits:
Lentils: Very high in protein + fiber
Onions + Garlic: “Natures Anti-biotic”. Anti-bacterial- great for fighting colds
Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory + anti bacterial- great for immune system and weight loss.
Kombu Kelp: Seaweed. High in potassium + iodine- great for the thyroid, muscles, limits need for salt. naturally salty, add to rice and beans to enhance digestion and soothe stomach.

Lentil Soup
WHAT YOU NEED:
1 1/4 cups lentils (soaked for at least 10 min then rinsed)
7 cups water
2 Tbs olive oil
1 white onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled + sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 kombu kelp seaweed (optional)
1/4 tsp turmeric (optional)
3/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
*optional – 1/2 organic, nitrite-free hot dog (don’t include if you’re cleansing!) (optional)
*optional – dulse flakes for extra nutrition (optional)
*Serves 4

DIRECTIONS:
1. Soak lentils for at least 10 minutes, overnight is preferable (enhances digestibility = no bloat or gas!)

2. Drain and rinse.

3. In a large pot, over medium heat, saute onion, garlic and carrots in olive oil and cook until carrots are tender.

4.Add the lentils, water, turmeric, kombu. Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil.

5. Once boiling, reduce heat to a medium-low simmer, and cover partially so it doesn’t boil over. Stir occasionally for about 1 hour, until lentils are soft. (Add hot dog if you’re using it)

5. After approx 1 hour, remove kombu (and slice the hot dog). Check to make sure lentils are soft. Add sea salt and pepper to taste.

Voila!