2-3clovesgarlicminced, or 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1teaspoonground coriander
1teaspoonground cumin
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2tablespoonstomato paste
4cupschicken brothor vegetable broth for a vegan soup
1cupdried green lentilsrinsed and drained
1bay leaf
1russet/Idaho potatopeeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1teaspoonbalsamic vinegar
Chopped fresh parsley for servingoptional
Instructions
Heat the oil in a large saucepan or stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until soft.
Add the garlic, coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute, until the herbs are fragrant. Fold in the tomato paste.
Add the broth, lentils, and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Stir in the potato. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover and simmer for 45 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the soup thickens. If the soups gets too thick, add water as needed.
Discard the bay leaf and stir in the balsamic vinegar. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the parsley, if using.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.