Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita

Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita Recipe - Chilean Lentil Soup

Region / culture: Chile | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita is a traditional Mexican lentil soup recipe that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in the family of Tia Julita, who was known for her delicious and nourishing soups. It is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to all who enjoy it.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
5 oz (142 g) chorizo sausages, peeled and sliced into 8 pieces
1 cup coarsely chopped onions
1 cup pumpkin, cut into 0.25 inch pieces
2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1 inch rings
5 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
1 large tomato, peeled, seeded, and coarsely chopped
1.5 cups lentils, picked over and rinsed
1 small celery rib, with leaves
3 sprigs parsley
2 bay leaves
2.5 – 3 qt (2.84 liters) water
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 small potatoes, peeled and cut into 0.25 inch dice
2 tbsp finely minced fresh parsley

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a heavy soup pot.
Add the chorizo, onion, and pumpkin. Cook over high heat, stirring, for a few minutes.
Add the leeks, garlic, and tomato. Cook for 3 minutes more.
Tie the celery, parsley, and bay leaves together with kitchen string. Add them, along with the lentils, to the soup pot.
Add enough water to cover the lentils by 2 inches, and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer covered for about 20 minutes.
Season with salt and black pepper. Add the potato cubes and simmer until the vegetables are soft, approximately 15 minutes.
If necessary, add more water.
Before serving, discard the herb bundle and taste for seasoning.
Serve the soup piping hot, garnished with parsley.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use different types of sausages for a unique flavor twist.
Add a splash of lime juice for a citrusy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before adding them to the soup to remove any dirt or debris.

- Adding the potato cubes towards the end of cooking ensures that they are perfectly cooked and not mushy.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious lentil soup with a side of warm corn tortillas or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup covered to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this lentil soup with a crisp green salad or a side of grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

This soup is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains sausages, which may contain allergens such as gluten and soy. Be sure to check the ingredients for any allergens before preparing the soup.

Summary

Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita is a delicious and nutritious lentil soup that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Tia Julita in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of simmering lentils and spices filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Tia Julita was a vibrant and lively woman with a passion for cooking. She had a knack for creating delicious dishes using simple, fresh ingredients. As we chatted and sipped on some tea, she shared with me the story behind her famous lentil soup.

She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family. It was a cherished secret, known only to a select few. Tia Julita learned how to make the soup from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been refined and perfected over the years, with each generation adding their own special touch.

As Tia Julita stirred the pot, she explained the key ingredients that made her lentil soup so special. She used fresh lentils, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices that gave the soup its rich and savory flavor. She also added a secret ingredient – a splash of red wine vinegar – that added a subtle tanginess to the dish.

I watched intently as Tia Julita worked her magic in the kitchen, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that, tasting and adjusting until she was satisfied with the final result. The soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its mouth-watering aroma.

After a few hours of cooking, the soup was ready. Tia Julita ladled out steaming bowls of the fragrant lentil soup, garnishing each with a dollop of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a world of flavor and comfort. The soup was hearty and satisfying, with just the right balance of spices and seasonings.

I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make Tia Julita's Sopa de Lentejas for myself. I begged her to teach me the recipe, promising to keep it a secret and pass it down to future generations. Tia Julita smiled and agreed, happy to share her culinary expertise with me.

Over the next few weeks, I spent countless hours in Tia Julita's kitchen, learning the ins and outs of making the perfect lentil soup. She taught me the importance of soaking the lentils overnight to ensure they cooked evenly and absorbed all the flavors of the broth. She showed me how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were golden and fragrant, adding depth to the soup's base.

I watched as Tia Julita added her secret blend of spices – cumin, paprika, and a touch of oregano – that gave the soup its distinctive taste. She explained how each spice played a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

As we cooked together, Tia Julita shared stories of her own childhood, growing up in a small village in Mexico. She reminisced about the simple pleasures of cooking with her family, using fresh ingredients from their garden and local markets. She spoke of the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, gathered around the table, savoring each bite and creating lasting memories.

By the time I had mastered the recipe for Sopa de Lentejas de la Tia Julita, I felt a deep sense of pride and accomplishment. I had learned a valuable skill from a dear friend, one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.

As I cook the soup in my own kitchen now, I can't help but think of Tia Julita and the special bond we shared over our love of food and cooking. Her lentil soup will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the warmth and comfort that comes from sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. And as I pass the recipe down to my own grandchildren, I know that Tia Julita's legacy will live on, in every steaming bowl of Sopa de Lentejas that graces our table.