A Comforting Lentil Soup for Under $8 | Budget-Friendly Recipes

Lentil soup is the ultimate budget-friendly hug in a bowl.

This isn’t just soup – it’s comfort, nutrition, and thriftiness all rolled into one hearty, simmering pot.

Lentils are a frugal cook’s dream: inexpensive, packed with protein and fiber, and ready to soak up any flavor you throw their way. Plus, they play well with almost any veggie you’ve got sitting in the fridge, making this recipe as flexible as it is filling.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, trying to stretch your grocery dollars, or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this lentil soup brings the goods – no fuss, no fancy ingredients, just pure, feel-good food.

Let’s dive into a classic that never goes out of style!

Why Make Classic Lentil Soup?

Lentil soup is a quintessential frugal recipe for several reasons.

• Lentils are incredibly affordable, offering a high yield for a low cost.
• They’re also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this soup a nutritional powerhouse.

Furthermore, this recipe is adaptable; it can easily accommodate any additional vegetables you have on hand, making it perfect for using up leftovers and reducing waste.

Lentil soup’s simplicity doesn’t detract from its flavor—the slow simmering process melds the ingredients into a rich, comforting broth that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Classic Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, with juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon vinegar (red wine or apple cider) or lemon juice for brightness
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Estimated Total Cost: $6-$8

Serves: 4

Cooking Directions

• Prepare Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Check for, and remove, any small stones or debris.
• Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin, and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
• Cook Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and a bay leaf. Stir to combine.
• Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Season: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For added brightness, stir in a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness if desired.

Additional Savings & Hot Tips

• Bulk Purchase: Buying lentils and spices in bulk can further reduce the cost per serving.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables for variety and savings.
• Homemade Broth: Use homemade broth made from kitchen scraps for an even more cost-effective and flavorful base.
• Batch Cooking: Lentil soup freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for batch cooking and future meals.
• Versatility: Experiment with different types of lentils and spices to keep the recipe fresh and exciting.

How to Shop: 3 Different Thrifty Grocery Lists for the Week→

Final Thoughts

This Classic Lentil Soup recipe proves that frugal cooking can be deeply flavorful and nourishing. It’s a reminder that some of the best meals come from the simplest ingredients, offering warmth, comfort, and satisfaction without straining your budget.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published March 12, 2024 and has been updated to reflect more accurate grocery prices.