Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

This Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup is a delightful dish that combines hearty lentils, vibrant vegetables, and fresh spices to create an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavors that will warm you up on a chilly day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile that will impress your taste buds.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from lentils and black beans, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add extra veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Vegan-Friendly: With no animal products, this soup caters to various dietary preferences while remaining hearty and fulfilling.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking of ingredients while providing ample space for simmering.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently to enhance your preparation time.

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Ingredients

This one pot vegan tortilla soup is made with red lentils, black beans, fire roasted tomatoes, corn and lots of fresh spices! It’s incredibly easy to make and the perfect hearty soup for a chilly day.

For the Soup Base

• 1 yellow onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 jalapeno (seeds removed for less spice)
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 15 ounce cans fire roasted crushed tomatoes (see notes)
• 3/4 cup red lentils
• 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn

For Seasoning & Garnish

• 1/3 cup cashew cream (click for recipe)
• 3 – 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon brown or coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt (use less if broth was not low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (about 1/2 lime)
• 1 cup tortilla strips
• 1 avocado
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the finely diced onion and olive oil. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Peppers

Add in the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and diced jalapeno. If you want less spice, just remove the seeds from the jalapeno or use less. Sauté for about 3 extra minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and sauté an additional 2 minutes until it’s well combined with the vegetables.

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients aside from the lime juice. If you prefer a thicker soup, use 3 cups of vegetable broth; if you like it more brothy, use up to 4 cups. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 5: Bring to Boil & Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Check Lentils

After about 20 minutes, taste to check if the lentils are fully cooked. If they still have a crunch, let them simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Step 7: Blend Some of the Soup

Once the lentils are done, transfer 2 cups worth of soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Return it back to the pot and stir well.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir in the lime juice. Taste your soup; adjust flavors as necessary by adding more broth or seasonings if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot garnished with tortilla strips, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, diced avocado, and cashew cream if desired. Enjoy your hearty Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup!

How to Serve Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your culinary experience.

With Fresh Garnishes

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the soup’s spices.
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a bright flavor that complements the soup.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice enhances the overall taste and adds freshness.

Over Tortilla Strips

• Homemade tortilla strips: Crunchy strips can be made by frying or baking corn tortillas for added texture.
• Store-bought tortilla chips: For convenience, top your soup with crispy chips for an easy crunch.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with rice or quinoa: A side of rice or quinoa can make this soup more filling and nutritious.
• Pair with cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread complements the flavors of this hearty soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

To ensure your Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices elevate the flavor profile of your soup.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno or chili powder based on your spice preference.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without dairy.
• Taste as you go: Regularly check seasoning and adjust salt, lime juice, or sugar as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Guacamole: This creamy dip adds a rich flavor and pairs well with tortilla soup.
2. Mexican-style rice: Flavored rice with tomatoes and spices complements the soup nicely.
3. Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Salad with lime dressing: A light salad offers freshness that contrasts well with the hearty soup.
5. Stuffed peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, and spices for an exciting twist.
6. Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet corn enhances the Mexican flavors and provides a fun side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using too much broth: Adding more broth than necessary can dilute the flavor. Start with 3 cups and add more only if needed.
• Not sautéing long enough: Failing to properly sauté the onions and garlic can result in a bland soup. Aim for at least 5 minutes for onions and 3 minutes for garlic.
• Overcooking lentils: Cooking lentils past their ideal texture can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and check around the 20-minute mark.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings before serving may result in a flat dish. Always taste before serving and adjust flavors as desired.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like avocado, tortilla strips, and cilantro enhance the soup’s flavor and presentation. Don’t skip these!
• Rushing the blending step: Blending part of the soup is essential for texture. Be patient, and blend until smooth for a creamy consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup:

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can substitute red lentils with green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary.

Is this soup spicy?

The spiciness depends on the jalapeño used. For less heat, remove seeds or use less jalapeño.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep.

How do I make my soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend more of the soup before adding lime juice.

What can I substitute for cashew cream?

You can use coconut cream or any plant-based cream as an alternative to cashew cream.

Can I customize the toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese alternatives, or fresh herbs.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup is not only hearty and delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try; it’s perfect for chilly days!