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Lentil soup is a hearty, comforting stew made primarily from lentils, which are small, lens-shaped legumes. It typically features a savory broth with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, often seasoned with garlic, cumin, and bay leaves, and is a staple in cuisines from the Middle East and Mediterranean to South Asia and beyond.
This soup is a protein-packed, high-fiber dish with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and very little fat, making it nutritionally balanced. A standard serving (about 1.5 cups) provides around 200-250 calories and is an excellent source of iron, folate, and plant-based protein.
Culturally, lentil soup is a symbol of sustenance and comfort across many global cuisines, often associated with home cooking and healing. Nutritionally, it's unique because lentils are one of the best plant-based sources of protein and fiber, and they cook quickly without soaking, making this soup both accessible and deeply nourishing.