15-Minute Lentil Soup (2024)

FAQs

Is lentil soup really good for you? ›

If you're wondering if lentil soup is good for you, the answer is yes! Lentils are nutritious, rich in minerals, protein, low in fat, high in fibre (digestive health). They are a terrific vegetarian source of protein with 25% of the calories in lentils attributable to protein.

Eating lentils can cause gas and bloating because they're high in fiber that your body is unable to break down. While fiber plays a large role in supporting and regulating your digestive system and bowel movements, it can also produce bacteria that leads to cramping and gas pains.

History and literature

The Roman cookbook Apicius, compiled in the 1st century AD, includes a recipe for lentil soup with chestnuts. Lentil soup is mentioned in the Bible: In Genesis 25:30-34, Esau is prepared to give up his birthright for a pot of fragrant red lentil soup being cooked by his brother, Jacob.

Rinse. On occasion, you'll find small rocks or debris mixed in with dried lentils. To avoid eating them, rinse the lentils in a fine mesh sieve and pick them over before you cook them.

Eating more lentils may help people maintain a healthy weight or lose weight. Replacing energy-dense (or high calorie) foods with legumes such as lentils can help people prevent or manage obesity and lose weight. Research suggests that regularly eating lentils may help with the management and prevention of diabetes.

Black Lentils (Beluga lentils)

Thanks to the robust flavor, these lentils pair well with meaty veggies and marinated proteins like mushrooms, tofu, and seitan. Best of all, black lentils are the most nutritious variety of lentils, boasting the highest amount of protein, plus high levels of calcium, potassium, and iron.

Lentils are frequently cooked with strong spices, which can cause indigestion in some people. Lentils are a good source of potassium, however, too many lentils in the diet can cause hyperkalemia (symptoms may include vomiting, fatigue, irregular heartbeat and difficulty breathing) in people with poor kidney function.

Risks of Eating Lentils

Lentils are a healthy choice for most people and aren't associated with significant health risks. However, since they are so high in fiber, people who aren't used to eating fiber-rich foods may experience bloating and gas after consuming lentils, especially in large portions.

Lentils, like some fruits and vegetables, contain fiber that's difficult for your body to break down. It also helps produce good bacteria in your gut. But too much can cause cramping and gas. To minimize these symptoms, Homan recommends gradually increasing your fiber intake.

Widely consumed throughout the Mediterranean region, lentils were standard fare for the Spaniards, who brought them to the New World, where they became a staple of the Mexican diet. They became a staple crop, too.

Who in the Bible ate lentils? ›

NKJV And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright.

In Italy we believe the eating Lentils, or lenticchie, bring good fortune, and eating them on new year's eve – shortly after midnight – is an Italian tradition that's said to date back to ancient Rome.

Red lentils are best for soups, curries, dals, and anything that craves a creamy, thicker, more comforting touch.

It'll be fine. The reason you rinse lentils is to remove any small rocks, husks, and rodent droppings that might have gotten in there.

Severely-infected seed may be shrivelled. Tiny black spots may appear on the surface of infected seeds. Clusters of brown spots often form on the leaves, upper stems and pods. These brown fruiting bodies distinguish Ascochyta from Anthracnose.

Peas have 6 grams of fiber, less than the almost 9 grams provided by lentils. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, lentils provide 7 milligrams of iron, while split peas only have 2.7 milligrams. Both foods are beneficial sources of potassium, with split peas providing 750 milligrams and lentils 772 milligrams per 1 cup.

Pulse consumption has been shown to confer beneficial effects on blood glucose and insulin levels. Lentil consumption, in particular, consistently lowers acute blood glucose and insulin response when compared to starchy control foods.

Lentils are a type of legume, a category that also includes beans, soy, and chickpeas. Due to their high carb content, legumes are generally avoided on a strict keto diet. In fact, 1 cup (180 grams) of cooked lentils provides 36 grams of carbs.

Lentils are high in fibre, and complex carbohydrates, while low in fat and calories. Their high protein content makes lentils a perfect option for those looking to boost their protein intake. They are naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious staple in a gluten-free kitchen.