As the chill of evening settles in, there’s a warmth that comes from stirring a pot of fragrant stew—each ingredient telling its own story. This Lentil and Cashew Stew has become my go-to comfort dish, effortlessly transforming an ordinary weeknight into something special. The unanticipated creaminess of blended cashews mixes beautifully with hearty French green lentils, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and nourishing.
I remember discovering this recipe during a frantic hunt for healthy, homemade meals that could banish the all-too-frequent fast food temptation. Now, I proudly serve it to guests, who are often surprised to learn just how simple it is to prepare. With aromatic spices like cumin and turmeric elevating the dish, you’ll be tempted to relish every spoonful. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth? Let’s get started on this delightful journey!
Why is this French Lentil Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This French Lentil Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings.
Simple and Wholesome: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it suitable for any home cook.
Nutrient-Rich Delight: Packed with protein and fiber, you can feel great about serving this nourishing meal to your loved ones.
Flavor Explosion: Aromatic herbs like cumin and turmeric create a robust flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Choice: Enjoy it as a hearty main or a side dish, making it adaptable for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this stew consistently impresses guests, and is a fantastic way to impress anyone looking for a delightful homemade meal. Don’t forget to check out some more healthy meal options to keep your menu fresh!
French Lentil Soup Ingredients
For the Cashew Cream
• Raw cashews – Soaking these cashews gives the soup a creamy texture without dairy.
• Water – Used for soaking and blending the cashews into a smooth cream.
For the Soup Base
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Offers a rich, flavorful base; feel free to substitute with vegetable broth for an oil-free option.
• Yellow or sweet onion – Diced onions add a savory sweetness to the soup.
• Garlic – Minced garlic brings an aromatic depth to the stew.
• Fine sea salt – Season to taste; it enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Carrots – Diced carrots provide natural sweetness and nutrition.
• Celery – Adds a wonderful crunch and depth to the flavor profile.
• Ground cumin – A key spice that gives this French Lentil Soup its delightful warmth.
• Dried thyme – Offers an earthy aroma that complements the lentils beautifully.
• Ground turmeric – Adds color and a hint of peppery flavor while boosting health benefits.
For the Rest of the Stew
• Diced tomatoes – Canned with juices, they create a rich base for the stew.
• French green lentils – Rinsed and picked over, these lentils hold their shape while cooking, providing great texture.
• Low sodium veggie broth – This broth keeps the stew light yet flavorful and allows other ingredients to shine.
• Swiss chard or kale – Adds greens for extra nutrition, you can use whichever leafy green you prefer.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Enhances flavors; add to taste.
• White wine vinegar – A splash at the end brightens the flavors; adjust to your preference.
How to Make French Lentil Soup
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Soak the cashews: Start by soaking the raw cashews in a bowl filled with water for 1 to 2 hours or even overnight. This softening step is essential for creating that creamy texture. Drain and rinse them when ready.
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Blend the cream: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews with 1/2 cup of water. Blend on high until the mixture is super smooth and creamy, then set aside your luscious cashew cream.
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Sauté the aromatics: In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and a couple pinches of salt. Sauté until the onion becomes softened, about 4 to 6 minutes, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
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Add vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional few minutes. Incorporate the ground cumin, dried thyme, and turmeric, stirring until the spices are well combined and fragrant.
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Combine the stew ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, rinsed lentils, veggie broth, and the remaining 1.5 cups of water. Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a low boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the lentils are tender and the soup thickens.
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Stir in the greens and cream: Add the cashew cream and chopped Swiss chard (or kale) to the pot, mixing well. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and white wine vinegar to taste, invigorating the flavors of the stew.
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Finish cooking: Let the soup cook over low-medium heat for a couple of minutes until the chard is wilted. This final touch ensures your soup is warm and ready to serve.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These French Lentil Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can soak the cashews up to 24 hours in advance and blend them into a creamy texture on your meal prep day. Additionally, chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables, add the remaining ingredients, and let it simmer. For the best flavor, adjust seasoning just before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious, nourishing soup ready with minimal effort during the hectic week!
Expert Tips for French Lentil Soup
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Soaking is Key: Always soak your cashews for at least 1 hour; it ensures a creamy texture for your stew without dairy.
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Don’t Rush the Aromatics: Sauté the onion and garlic until soft—this step builds the flavor base essential to your French Lentil Soup.
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Watch the Lentils: French green lentils hold their shape better than others; avoid overcooking to maintain a delightful texture.
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Season Gradually: Add salt and vinegar to taste at the end; this enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Adjust Herbs & Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice amounts based on your preference, but remember that every ingredient adds its unique touch to the stew!
How to Store and Freeze French Lentil Soup
Fridge: Keep your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the French Lentil Soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of broth while reheating to maintain creaminess.
Serving Freshness: To ensure the best flavor, consume within 2 days after reheating for optimal taste and texture.
What to Serve with French Lentil Soup?
As you prepare to serve your fragrant, hearty stew, think about delightful accompaniments that can elevate this comforting dish to a full meal.
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Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the rich flavors of your lentil soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
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Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with seasonal greens brings a crisp contrast to the stew’s creamy texture, making for a refreshing bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies such as carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a sweet, caramelized addition that complements the earthiness of the lentils perfectly.
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Creamy Polenta: This velvety side dish enhances the meal with its comforting softness and subtle flavor, creating an unforgettable balance with the stew.
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Savory Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa, lightly seasoned, adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, making your dining experience even more nutrient-packed.
Pair any of these options with a glass of crisp white wine or a light sparkling water to complete your comforting meal. Make it a celebration at the table with these thoughtful accompaniments!
French Lentil Soup Variations
Embrace the versatility of this French Lentil Soup and get creative with your culinary choices!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 tablespoon of sriracha or diced jalapeños to the pot while cooking for a fiery twist. Your taste buds will dance with delight with this added heat!
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or dill to finish the soup before serving. These herbal notes elevate the flavors and bring a fresh vibrancy to the dish.
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Nut Allergy-Friendly: Substitute the cashew cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture that is entirely nut-free. This will impart a subtly sweet flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
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Protein Boost: Toss in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or cooked quinoa for an extra protein punch. It enhances the nutrition and adds a lovely texture to the stew.
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Veggie Variation: Mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to diversify the flavors and increase your vegetable intake. A colorful medley will not only brighten the dish but enrich its nutrient profile.
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Grain Swap: Replace French green lentils with other legumes, such as black lentils or even split peas, to discover new flavors. Each type of legume offers a unique taste and texture that can change the dish entirely.
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Creamy Dream: Swap the cashew cream for a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a luxurious finish. This creamy addition will create a decadent twist that’s hard to resist.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke into the mix for a depth of flavor that evokes warmth and comfort. This will add a whole new layer to your soup experience!
French Lentil Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of cashews should I use?
I recommend using raw cashews for this recipe, as they blend into a smooth and creamy texture without any additional additives. Make sure they look fresh and have no dark spots or sour smell to ensure the best flavor.
How long can I store the French Lentil Soup in the fridge?
You can keep your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through, stirring occasionally to keep the texture creamy and delightful.
Can I freeze French Lentil Soup?
Absolutely! For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it with a splash of veggie broth to refresh its creamy texture.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find your soup has thickened too much during cooking or reheating, simply add a little more veggie broth or water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Stir well to ensure everything is combined so you can savor every hearty spoonful!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This French Lentil Soup is vegan-friendly, making it perfect for anyone avoiding animal products. However, the cashews do contain nuts, so if there are nut allergies in your household, consider substituting the cashew cream with a blended silken tofu for a creamy texture without the nut content.
Can I use other types of lentils?
While this recipe calls for French green lentils due to their lovely texture and ability to hold shape during cooking, you can substitute with brown or black lentils if necessary. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook and lose their texture.
Creamy French Lentil Soup That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the cashews in a bowl filled with water for 1 to 2 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse them when ready.
- In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews with 1/2 cup of water. Blend until super smooth and creamy, then set aside.
- In a large Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and a couple pinches of salt, sauté until softened.
- Add diced carrots and celery, cooking for a few minutes. Incorporate ground cumin, dried thyme, and turmeric.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices, lentils, veggie broth, and 1.5 cups of water. Bring to a low boil, then simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Add the cashew cream and chopped greens, mixing well. Season with salt, pepper, and white wine vinegar to taste.
- Let the soup cook over low-medium heat for a couple of minutes until the greens are wilted.