Good dried lentils hold their shape and cook evenly, so half the pot melts and half stays whole. The technique that lifts it: toast whole cumin and coriander in oil until they pop before anything else goes in, so the spice is fragrant rather than dusty.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Brown lentils
They hold together through the simmer without turning to mush.
Bloom the spicesWarm the oil and toast the cumin and coriander until they sizzle and smell nutty, about 30 seconds, then add the onion, carrot, and garlic to soften.
Add tomatoStir in the crushed tomatoes and cook 5 minutes until they darken and lose their raw edge.
Simmer the lentilsAdd the rinsed lentils and 5 cups water. Simmer 30 to 35 minutes until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened.
BrightenSalt to taste, then squeeze in the lemon off the heat. That acid is what makes it taste finished instead of flat.
Can you make Lentil Soup in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Lentil Soup? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Lentil Soup ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Lentil Soup gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Lentil Soup vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
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