Moldovan Lentil Soup

Moldovan Lentil Soup Recipe - Hearty and Flavorful

Region / culture: Moldova | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Moldovan Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

History

Lentil soup is a traditional dish in Moldovan cuisine, where it is often enjoyed as a comforting and nourishing meal. Lentils have been a staple food in the region for centuries, and this soup is a popular way to enjoy them.

Ingredients

3 qt (3 liters) water
0.5 lb (250 g) lentils
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp oil
1 bay leaf
1 grated carrot
1 tsp flour
0.5 tsp dry thyme
salt

How to prepare

Pick the lentils, wash them, and pre-soak them in tepid water the night before cooking.
In the morning, discard the water and place the lentils in a pot with 3 qt/3 liter of cold water. Add finely chopped onion, bay leaf, and garlic cloves.
When the lentils are almost cooked, add salt and grated carrot that has been fried in oil and mixed with half a teaspoon of thyme.
Sprinkle flour over the soup and mix it. Let it boil for 5 more minutes. Serve warm.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or tomatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Stir in some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Pre-soaking the lentils overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Frying the grated carrot in oil before adding it to the soup adds a depth of flavor.

- Adding a sprinkle of flour to the soup helps to thicken it slightly and create a more velvety texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Moldovan Lentil Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to pre-soak the lentils overnight for the best results.

- Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of lentils for this recipe, such as green or brown lentils.

- If you don't have thyme, you can use other dried herbs, such as oregano or rosemary.

Make Ahead Tips

Moldovan Lentil Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Moldovan Lentil Soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Moldovan Lentil Soup with a glass of red wine or a cup of hot tea for a cozy and comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Moldovan Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Moldovan Lentil Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Moldovan Lentil Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Moldovan Lentil Soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Moldovan Lentil Soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Lentils are a good source of iron, folate, and magnesium, making this soup a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions.

Summary

Moldovan Lentil Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal, rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Moldovan Lentil Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this soup is a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my friend Ana in Moldova. She invited me into her cozy kitchen and began preparing a pot of lentil soup. The aroma that filled the room was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to learn how to make it myself.

Ana explained to me that lentil soup is a staple in Moldovan cuisine, especially during the winter months when hearty, warming dishes are a must. She showed me how to carefully wash and sort the lentils, removing any debris or stones. Then, she chopped up a variety of vegetables - carrots, onions, and potatoes - and sautéed them in a large pot with some olive oil until they were tender.

Next, Ana added the lentils to the pot along with some water and a few bay leaves for flavor. She seasoned the soup with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika before letting it simmer on the stove for about an hour. As the soup cooked, the lentils softened and the flavors melded together, creating a rich and savory broth.

When the soup was ready, Ana ladled it into bowls and garnished each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. I eagerly took my first spoonful and was blown away by the depth of flavor and comforting warmth of the dish. It was unlike any lentil soup I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Ana generously shared her recipe with me, along with stories of how she had learned to cook from her own grandmother. She explained that traditional Moldovan recipes are passed down through generations, with each cook adding their own touch to make the dish uniquely their own.

I returned home from my trip to Moldova with a newfound passion for cooking and a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of food. I set to work in my own kitchen, carefully following Ana's instructions and tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my Moldovan lentil soup recipe, adding in my own favorite herbs and spices to make it truly my own. I have shared the dish with friends and family, who have all marveled at the rich flavors and comforting warmth of the soup.

Now, whenever I make Moldovan lentil soup, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen in Moldova, where Ana first showed me how to make the dish. I am grateful for her generosity in sharing her recipe with me, and for the memories we created together over a steaming bowl of soup.

Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and to express my creativity and love. Each dish I make tells a story, whether it's a family recipe passed down through generations or a new creation inspired by my travels. Moldovan lentil soup will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the warmth and hospitality of the friends I have made along the way. And each time I prepare a pot of soup, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that comes from sharing a delicious meal with those I care about.