Comforting Lentil Soup Recipe for Homesick Students Living Abroad

Living abroad as a student can be a fantastic experience, but it can also come with challenges, particularly when it comes to eating healthily and affordably. As a vegetarian, finding accessible and affordable recipes that are also satisfying can be a struggle. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple yet delicious vegetarian recipes out there that are perfect for students living abroad. This easy lentil soup recipe is perfect for students living abroad who want a filling and nutritious meal that won't break the bank. This recipe is quick and easy to make with only a few ingredients, making it ideal for busy students.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 cup of dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan bread to serve

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until they are fragrant.
2. Add the chopped carrot and celery to the pot and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softening.
3. Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the lentil soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Cooking Tips:

• Before adding the lentils to the soup, rinse and drain them to remove any dirt or debris.
• Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other spices and herbs like cumin, coriander, and thyme to give the soup extra flavour.
• Adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish adds freshness and flavour to the soup. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
• This recipe makes a large batch of soup, so you'll likely have leftovers. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat on the stovetop until heated through.

This easy lentil soup recipe is delicious, packed with nutrients, and perfect for vegetarians. Plus, it's a great way to use leftover vegetables in your fridge. Try this recipe and see just how easy and delicious healthy cooking can be!