| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins – 1 hour | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 7g | 1g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 10g | 12g | 0.8g |
From the hearty filling of lentils to the Earthy, fruit-like tones of paracress finishing with the subtle flair of apple; the Paracress and Lentil Soup has won my heart. The magic of this recipe lies not just in its robust, refreshing flavors, but in the remarkable fusion of ingredients that are cemented in my Louisiana and French heritage. The recipe creates a taste reminiscent of home, appealing to both my Creole roots and French ancestry.
A Pleasant Harmony of Nutrition
Much like the rich Creole culture and European elegance that have both shaped my culinary journey, I love how the components of Paracress and Lentil Soup form an unusual yet delightful culinary harmony. Every spoonful feels both familiar and exotic, embodying the quintessential comfort of traditional lentil soup recipes elevated with the nuanced hint of paracress and the tart zest of apple.
But the appeal runs even deeper than the taste. This recipe fortifies every serving with an abundance of health benefits. Lentils, the core ingredient in the recipe, are a wonderful source of protein and dietary fiber, both essential for overall wellness. Paracress, native to my homeland, boasts a high content of vitamin C and holds various medicinal properties. Paired with the immunity-boosting lemon and antioxidant-rich apple, this recipe becomes a nutrient powerhouse.
Perfect for a Family Feast
Moreover, what makes the Paracress and Lentil Soup one of my favorites is its versatility. It works as a wholesome meal in itself or a complements a range of dishes from both my native and inherited culinary heritage. Think piping hot jambalaya, gumbo, or a classic French boeuf bourguignon. This soup adds a touch of warmth and comfort to these meals, rounding off the feast with a burst of well-balanced flavors.
So, the next time you find yourself in need of a recipe that’s satisfying, packed with nutrients, and reminiscent of good old home cooking, think of this unique bowl of Paracress and Lentil Soup. It’s the sort of dish that stays with you long after the last spoonful, just like the memories of Louisiana and France that influence my cuisine.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh paracress, chopped
- 1 apple, peeled, cored and diced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Method
Step One
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the pot, stirring frequently until the onion is transparent.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic to the pot with the onions, stir continuously for a minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step Three
Add the dried lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step Four
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
Step Five
While the soup is simmering, prepare the fresh paracress. Rinse the paracress thoroughly, then pat dry. Chop the paracress into small pieces.
Step Six
Add the chopped paracress to the soup. Also add the peeled, cored, and diced apple. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
Step Seven
Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the soup. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step Eight
Before serving, taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Enjoy your delicious Paracress and Lentil Soup while hot.
