This hearty and nutritious Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage is a perfect meal for any season. Packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils, red cabbage, and soba noodles, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It's a great way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal that's full of flavor and texture.

Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage

A bowl of Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage, served with soba noodles.

What Makes This Soup Special?

This soup combines the earthy flavor of lentils, the crunch of red cabbage, and the nuttiness of soba noodles into one comforting dish. The addition of aromatic herbs and spices makes it a flavorful and wholesome meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. It's also vegan-friendly and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Ingredients

  • 200g soba noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 carrot (sliced)
  • 1 celery stalk (sliced)
  • 1 cup red cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 cup lentils (rinsed and drained)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Salt to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
Ingredients for Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage

Ingredients needed for Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage.

Instructions

  1. Cook the Soba Noodles: Cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Soup Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the carrot, celery, and red cabbage to the pot. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  4. Add Lentils and Broth: Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  5. Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Assemble the Soup: Divide the cooked soba noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup over the noodles.
  7. Serve: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, tangy finish.
Serving Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage

Serving Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage with lemon wedges.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

  • Use high-quality soba noodles for the best texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a small portion of the soup and mix it back in.
  • For extra protein, add tofu or chickpeas to the soup.
  • If you're gluten-free, ensure the soba noodles are 100% buckwheat.

Why You'll Love This Soup

This Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage is a wholesome and flavorful dish that's perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, plant-based meal. The combination of lentils, red cabbage, and soba noodles provides a satisfying mix of textures, while the aromatic spices and fresh herbs add depth and complexity to the flavor. It's a comforting and nutritious soup that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Vegetable Soup with Lentils and Red Cabbage is a delicious and nutritious dish that's perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you're a fan of plant-based cooking or simply looking for a new recipe to try, this soup is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients!