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Comforting Slow Cooker Lentil Soup

There’s something deeply soothing about a warm bowl of lentil soup. Nutritious, hearty, and full of flavor, this Comforting Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is the kind of meal that nourishes both body and soul. With tender lentils, carrots, celery, onion, and aromatic spices, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a deliciously rich dish. The slow cooker makes this recipe effortless — just add your ingredients, let them simmer gently, and come back to a kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of homemade soup. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or cozy weekends when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. This lentil soup is also budget-friendly, protein-packed, and naturally vegetarian, making it perfect for feeding the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 cup brown lentils rinsed and drained
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can tomatoes 14–15 oz., diced or crushed
Liquids
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Seasonings & Spices
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • To prepare this wholesome soup, you’ll need:
  • Slow cooker (crockpot)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Soup bowls for serving

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
  1. Dice onion, carrots, and celery.
  2. Mince garlic.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
  1. Add lentils, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and canned tomatoes into the crockpot.
  2. Pour in vegetable broth.
Step 3: Season
  1. Stir in thyme, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until lentils are tender.
Step 5: Adjust & Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  2. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
  3. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or water if soup thickens.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Lentil Soup: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Mediterranean Twist: Stir in fresh parsley, lemon juice, or spinach at the end.
Protein Boost: Add chickpeas or white beans.
Creamier Version: Stir in coconut milk for richness.
Chunky Style: Leave everything unblended for a rustic texture.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Do I need to soak lentils first?
No, brown lentils cook well in the slow cooker without soaking.
2. Can I use green lentils instead of brown?
Yes, but they may take slightly longer to soften.
3. Can I use red lentils?
Yes, but they cook faster and may create a creamier soup.
4. Can I make this with chicken broth?
Yes, though it won’t be vegetarian.
5. Can I add potatoes?
Absolutely — diced potatoes add heartiness.
6. What herbs go well with lentil soup?
Bay leaves, parsley, oregano, or rosemary.
7. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes beautifully.
8. How can I thicken the soup?
Blend part of it or add extra lentils.
9. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer for 45–60 minutes until lentils are tender.
10. What should I serve with lentil soup?
Crusty bread, naan, or a side salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Comforting Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With lentils, vegetables, and warm spices simmered low and slow, you’ll have a hearty, nourishing meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat.
Perfect for cozy nights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family, this soup is versatile, budget-friendly, and always a hit. Serve it with bread or salad, and you’ve got a complete, wholesome meal ready to enjoy.