Lentil soup, known as "Zuppa di Lenticchie," has been a staple in Italy since ancient Roman times, providing a nutritious, inexpensive meal for peasants and later becoming a comfort food enjoyed across the country, especially during the colder months.

In the north, the soup often includes pancetta and Parmesan rinds, while in the south it may feature tomatoes, chili flakes, and a touch of olive oil. Some regions add carrots and celery for a classic "soffritto" base, just like in this recipe.

It is traditionally served hot, ladled into shallow bowls, topped with a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil, grated Parmigiano‑Reggiano, and accompanied by crusty country bread or focaccia.

Lentil soup is often enjoyed on everyday meals during fall and winter, and it is also served on New Year’s Day in many Italian families as a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

Core ingredients are brown or green lentils, soffritto (onion, carrot, celery), tomatoes, olive oil, and a Parmigiano‑Reggiano rind. Substitutes can include vegetable stock instead of water, or a Parmesan rind can be replaced with grated Parmesan added at the end.

Pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon, roasted vegetables, or a plate of grilled polenta. A glass of Chianti or a light red wine complements the earthy flavors.

Originally a peasant dish made with just lentils and water, it evolved to include tomatoes after their introduction from the New World, and later the addition of aromatics, herbs, and cheese enriched the flavor profile we enjoy today.

Common errors include over‑cooking the lentils until they turn mushy, burning the tomato paste, and adding too much salt before the broth reduces. Also, forgetting to remove the hard Parmesan rind before serving can be a surprise.

Blooming the paste in oil caramelizes its natural sugars and deepens the flavor, preventing a raw, acidic taste and creating a richer base for the soup.

The YouTube channel Sip and Feast specializes in approachable, comfort‑food recipes with a focus on seasonal ingredients, detailed technique explanations, and variations for different dietary preferences.

Sip and Feast emphasizes simple, pantry‑friendly Italian dishes that can be made with everyday kitchen tools, while many other Italian channels focus on more elaborate, restaurant‑style preparations or require specialty ingredients.