My husband loves this Lentil Soup Recipe Delicious and Healthy! Sopa de Lentejas

My husband loves this Lentil Soup Recipe Delicious and Healthy! Sopa de Lentejas is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Love Kari Cooking on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min

Cost: $17.29 total, $4.32 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for sautéing the aromatics)
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced)
  • 0.5 small White Onion (diced)
  • 1 Jalapeño (seeded if less heat, diced)
  • 2 Roma Tomatoes (diced)
  • 1 pound Lentils (washed and drained)
  • 8 cups Chicken Broth (can substitute with water or vegetable broth)
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Bouillon Paste (adds depth of flavor)
  • 2 Carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 1 small bunch Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 Avocado (sliced for topping)
  • 0.25 cup Queso Fresco (crumbled, optional topping)
  • 2-3 Corn Tortillas (warmed, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Mince the garlic, dice the onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, carrots, and chop the cilantro.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Sauté Aromatics

    Place the large pot over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, then add the minced garlic, diced onion, and jalapeño. Fry, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  3. Cook Tomatoes

    Add the diced Roma tomatoes to the pot and continue cooking for 2 minutes, stirring, until the tomatoes release their juices.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  4. Add Lentils and Liquid

    Stir in the washed lentils, pour in 8 cups of chicken broth (or water/vegetable broth), and add 2 tablespoons tomato bouillon paste. Mix well.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: medium heat

  5. Simmer Lentils

    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: low simmer

  6. Add Carrots and Cilantro

    After the lentils are nearly tender, add the diced carrots and chopped cilantro. Cover and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: low simmer

  7. Finish and Serve

    Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, top each serving with sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and a warm corn tortilla on the side.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
8 g
Fiber
12 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth), Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 13, 2026

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My husband loves this Lentil Soup Recipe Delicious and Healthy! Sopa de Lentejas

Recipe by Love Kari Cooking

A hearty, one‑pot Mexican lentil soup flavored with garlic, onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, carrots, and fresh cilantro. Served with avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and warm corn tortillas, this comforting soup is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.

EasyMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
13m
Prep
44m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 7m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$17.29
Total cost
$4.32
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Sauté aromatics without burning the garlic.
  • Add liquid and ensure lentils are fully covered.
  • Simmer lentils until tender but not mushy.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter; keep a safe distance and use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Handle the pot handles with oven mitts to avoid burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Sopa de Lentejas in Mexican cuisine?

A

Sopa de Lentejas is a traditional Mexican comfort food that dates back to rural households where lentils were an affordable source of protein. It is often served during cooler months and on family gatherings as a hearty, nourishing dish.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Sopa de Lentejas in Mexico?

A

In northern Mexico, the soup may include chorizo or pork for extra richness, while in the south, it often features epazote and a splash of lime. Some coastal versions add seafood or use black beans instead of lentils.

cultural
Q

How is Sopa de Lentejas traditionally served in Mexican households?

A

It is typically served hot in deep bowls, topped with sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and accompanied by warm corn tortillas or tostadas for dipping. A side of fresh lime wedges is also common.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Sopa de Lentejas associated with in Mexican culture?

A

While not tied to a specific holiday, Sopa de Lentejas is a go‑to dish for family reunions, post‑celebration leftovers, and everyday meals during the rainy season when a warm soup is especially comforting.

cultural
Q

How does Sopa de Lentejas fit into the broader Mexican cuisine tradition?

A

The soup reflects Mexican cuisine’s emphasis on legumes, fresh herbs, and simple, bold flavors. It showcases the Mexican love for combining pantry staples like lentils with fresh produce and dairy toppings.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Sopa de Lentejas versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ingredients include brown or red lentils, chicken broth, garlic, onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, carrots, cilantro, avocado, queso fresco, and corn tortillas. Substitutes can be vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, feta for queso fresco, or canned diced tomatoes if fresh are unavailable.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with Sopa de Lentejas?

A

Pair the soup with Mexican rice, a simple salad of nopales (cactus), or a side of refried beans. For a fuller meal, serve alongside grilled chicken tacos or a fresh pico de gallo.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Sopa de Lentejas?

A

Common errors include over‑cooking the lentils until they turn mushy, not enough liquid causing the soup to stick, and burning the garlic during the sauté step. Keep the heat medium and stir frequently to prevent sticking.

technical
Q

How do I know when the lentils are perfectly cooked in Sopa de Lentejas?

A

The lentils should be tender but still hold their shape, offering a slight bite. Test a few with a spoon; they should easily break apart but not dissolve into a puree.

technical
Q

Can I make Sopa de Lentejas ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the soup improves after a night in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze in portion‑size bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove and add fresh toppings just before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Love Kari Cooking specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Love Kari Cooking specializes in easy, home‑cooked Latin American and Mexican recipes, focusing on flavorful, budget‑friendly meals that can be prepared with everyday kitchen tools.

channel
Q

What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Love Kari Cooking?

A

Love Kari Cooking emphasizes simple, step‑by‑step tutorials, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques while encouraging home cooks to adapt recipes to their own tastes and pantry supplies.

channel

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