Name: Grandma's Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Comfort food
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

There’s something so heartwarming about a bowl of Grandma’s Lentil Soup. It wraps you in comfort with each spoonful, bringing memories of slow-cooked meals, laughter around the table, and the warmth only homemade food can offer. This recipe has been passed down through generations in our family, and every time I make it, the house fills with the same familiar aroma that once came from Grandma’s cozy kitchen.

This soup isn’t fancy, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s all about humble ingredients coming together to create something nourishing and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight meal or a nourishing pot to help you reset, this classic soup always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Lentil Soup

Grandma’s Lentil Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and packs a punch of nutrition. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, and they simmer beautifully with simple veggies and herbs to create rich flavor. This recipe is also easy to customize with what you have on hand, and it freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

What Kind of Lentils Should I Use?

For this soup, brown or green lentils work best. They hold their shape during cooking and develop a hearty texture that feels just right in every spoonful. Red lentils tend to break down into a mushier consistency, which can also be delicious if you prefer a creamier-style lentil soup. If you’re using red lentils, just keep in mind they cook much faster than other varieties.

Ingredients for the Grandma’s Lentil Soup

To make this soup shine, it’s all about starting with quality, simple ingredients. Each one plays a role in building flavor and comfort.

Olive oil
Yellow onion
Garlic cloves
Carrots
Celery
Tomato paste
Dried lentils (brown or green)
Vegetable broth
Bay leaves
Dried thyme
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)

How To Make the Grandma’s Lentil Soup

Step 1: Build the Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables begin to soften and onions turn translucent, about 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Lentils

Add the dried lentils to the pot and stir well to coat them in the flavorful base. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the lentils are fully cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in chopped fresh parsley or dill for brightness. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a lovely lift.

Storing and Serving Grandma’s Lentil Soup

This recipe yields enough to comfortably feed 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for families or leftovers. Store any extra soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat when you need a nourishing bowl on the fly.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it thickens during storage, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up again.

What to Serve With Grandma’s Lentil Soup?

Crusty Bread

Nothing beats a thick slice of rustic bread to dunk into this hearty soup.

Garlic Butter Toast

A simple side that pairs well with the earthy lentils and adds a touch of indulgence.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The melty richness of grilled cheese is a match made in heaven with the hearty soup.

Simple Green Salad

Bright and crisp greens with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the warmth of the soup.

Roasted Veggies

Add a tray of roasted carrots, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts to make it a full veggie-forward meal.

Avocado Toast

Top toasted bread with smashed avocado and a pinch of sea salt for creamy contrast.

Feta or Goat Cheese Crumbles

Add a sprinkle of tangy cheese on top of each bowl to elevate the flavor.

Herbed Couscous or Rice

A spoonful stirred into the soup can bulk it up and make it even heartier.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If Grandma’s Lentil Soup warmed your soul, you’ll love these other cozy bowls on Luna Meals:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s just a click away next time you’re craving something nourishing.

Tell me how yours turned out in the comments! Did you stick to Grandma’s version or add your own twist? I’d love to hear your variations, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you run into anything while cooking.

Explore more comfort food and wholesome meals on my Pinterest board: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

Grandma’s Lentil Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a connection to simpler times, to home, and to nourishment made with love. Whether you’re cooking it for the first time or revisiting a family classic, this soup offers a bowlful of comfort that never goes out of style. Happy cooking!

Grandma’s Lentil Soup

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Lentil Soup

What Kind of Lentils Should I Use?

Ingredients for the Grandma’s Lentil Soup