Classic New Year’s Lentil Soup

By
Alexandra Catalano
-
301

Active Preparation: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes | Serves: 4

Warm, comforting, and nourishing, this classic lentil soup is the perfect way to start the New Year. Made with simple pantry staples and fresh vegetables, it is hearty enough to enjoy on its own and even better paired with crusty bread.

Beyond being delicious, lentils have long been considered a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and abundance when eaten at the start of a new year. In many cultures, lentils are served on New Year’s Day because their small, round shape resembles coins. Eating them is believed to invite wealth, success, and financial growth in the months ahead.

What better way to set your intentions for the year than with a comforting bowl of soup that nourishes both body and spirit?

THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 6 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 sprig rosemary
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

 

THIS IS WHAT YOU DO

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water and drain. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, then peel and dice the potato into small cubes.

  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes.

  3. Stir in the carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. Add the lentils and stir to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix well. Add the vegetable broth, bay leaf, and rosemary sprig.

  5. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.

  6. Remove and discard the bay leaf and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

    NEW YEAR’S NOTE

    Sharing a pot of lentil soup is a meaningful way to welcome the year ahead with hopes of prosperity, stability, and comfort. May every spoonful bring warmth, good health, and a little extra luck to your table.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR