The Best Lentil Soup (vegan, gluten-free)

close up shot of the best lentil soup

This is the best lentil soup that is super easy to make, hearty, and so delicious. I’ve been craving all the soups lately because it’s been so cold and rainy here! This lentil soup can be made in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop. It’s so cozy, healthy, and warms you right up!

I love a good, nourishing soup after all the holiday treats. My body just craves something wholesome, yet satisfying. This lentil soup is literally the best and makes for great leftovers. It’s a filling soup that pairs wonderfully with fresh crusty bread. The flavors are amazing and tastes even better over time.

There are directions on how to make this in the Instant Pot and on the stovetop. It’s super easy to make and will be wonderful for meal prep. This lentil soup is packed with fiber, protein, and all the yummy spices. If you make it, tag me @nutsaboutgreens on Instagram so I can see your creations!

close up shot of the best lentil soup overview shot of a bowl of lentil soup and bread angled shot of soup spoonful of lentil soup lentil soup with crusty bread dipped in it

The Best Lentil Soup (vegan, gluten-free)

This is the best lentil soup ever and it's healthy, filling, cozy, and so delicious. You can make it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop!
Print Recipe
close up shot of the best lentil soup

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 medium carrots, diced
  • 4 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups green or brown lentils
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

  • (stovetop directions at the end) Add oil to Instant Pot and turn on the saute function. Then add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  • Add the carrots, celery, sweet potatoes, and garlic. Saute for 2-3 minutes. Then add the cumin, curry powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Saute for 1 minute.
  • Cancel saute function. Add the lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir and make sure to deglaze the bottom of the pan.
  • Cover with lid and make sure valve is in the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then let it naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes. Open lid and stir soup. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve with bread. Enjoy!
  • To make on the stove top, prepare the recipe until step 3. Bring soup to a boil, then simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 25-35 minutes until lentils are soft (not mushy), stirring occasionally. Enjoy!
Servings: 4
Author: valeria.chao