Here is a special recipe that meets all your nutritional needs, to take care of yourself both internally and externally: a comforting and healthy lentil soup that will not only help you maintain a balanced diet, but also boost your mood and mental health.
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably have at home, and if you don’t, shouldn’t have any problems finding in your local supermarket.
This recipe has all the markers of a great comfort food meal, warm in the belly and oh-so-tasty. Get ready to prepare a nutritious and delicious dish that will bring you peace of mind and positivity.
Lentil soup is loaded with nutrients, fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet. In addition, lentils are a source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid that helps increase serotonin levels in the brain, thus promoting a positive mood and sense of tranquility.
Learn more about foods to boost your mood.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 sliced carrots
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Mode of preparation:
- Rinse the lentils with cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes. Then, drain and rinse them again.
- Heat a little olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until golden brown and fragrant.
- Add the carrots and celery to the pot, and sauté for a few minutes until tender.
- Add the drained lentils to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, cumin and turmeric powder. Mix all the ingredients well.
- Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and simmer for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked.
- Once the lentils are cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the soup to bring out the flavors.
- Serve the soup hot in individual bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
This delicious lentil soup is not only easy to make, but it's also rich in essential nutrients that promote mental and emotional health. Enjoying a nutritious meal like this can help you feel good about yourself and maintain a calm, positive mood.
I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this recipe!