Description
Decadent Lentil Tortilla Soup is a hearty, plant-based twist on the classic tortilla soup. Packed with smoky spices, tender lentils, and a rich tomato-chili broth, it’s finished with crispy tortilla strips and your favorite toppings for a cozy, nourishing meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small green chili or 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed or fire-roasted tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 4 corn tortillas, sliced into strips (or use tortilla chips)
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, sour cream or dairy-free yogurt, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, hot sauce, lime wedges
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and green chili or jalapeño (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Add lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Meanwhile, prepare tortilla strips: bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or pan-fry in a bit of oil until crispy.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy tortilla strips and desired toppings.
Notes
- Use canned lentils for quicker prep—add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Black beans, corn, or spinach can be added for extra texture and nutrients.
- Blend part of the soup for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Store toppings separately to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Freezes well—cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
