French Lentil and Mushroom Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Lentil and Mushroom Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with earthy flavors and wholesome ingredients. Featuring tender French green lentils and umami-rich mushrooms, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying—perfect for cool evenings or when you’re craving something warm and nutritious. It’s naturally vegan, easy to prepare, and great for meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

French green lentils (also known as lentilles du Puy)olive oilyellow oniongarliccelerycarrotscremini or button mushroomsdried thymesalt and peppertomato pastevegetable brothbay leaffresh parsley (for garnish)lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

directions

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add sliced mushrooms and cook for about 8-10 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.

Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.

Add lentils, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and add a splash of lemon juice if desired.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use red wine to deglaze the pot before adding broth for extra depth of flavor.
Add chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a green boost.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast before serving.
Use a stick blender to partially puree for a creamier texture.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use brown or red lentils instead?

French green lentils hold their shape best, but brown lentils are an okay substitute. Avoid red lentils as they tend to become mushy.

Are there gluten-free options?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free.

How do I make it creamier?

You can stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end for a richer texture.

What mushrooms work best?

Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal, but shiitake or portobello also add great flavor.

Can I add protein?

Yes, add cooked sausage or chickpeas for extra protein.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, as long as vegetable broth is used and no dairy is added.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it’s great for batch cooking and meal prep.

What if my lentils are still hard?

Continue simmering, adding more broth or water as needed, until tender.

What herbs go well in this soup?

Thyme, bay leaf, rosemary, or herbes de Provence are all excellent choices.

Conclusion

French Lentil and Mushroom Soup is a cozy, flavorful bowl of goodness that combines nutrition with comfort. Its deep, savory notes and hearty texture make it a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With its versatility and simple ingredients, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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