Creamy Lentil Soup

There is nothing more comforting than a bowl of soup when the snow begins to fly. I have always loved the taste of lentil soup, but sometimes the texture of lentils is less than appealing. This is the perfect way to enjoy the health benefits of lentils but get the satisfaction of a creamy bowl of soup!! This recipe is from Skinnytaste.com.


Ingredients:

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 3/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium chopped tomato
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 cup cup dried lentils
• 1 small red potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• kosher salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste
• Optional: light sour cream and 2 Tbsp scallions for garnish

Directions:

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the oil, scallions, garlic and tomato to the pot, season with salt and pepper. Cook stirring until soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup cilantro, cumin and cook 1 minute more.

Add the lentils, potato, broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat to medium low, cover and cook until the lentils become tender about 30 minutes.

Remove the bay leaf, and puree the soup in the blender in 2 batches (so it doesn't explode) until very smooth. Adjust soup with salt and pepper to taste, then ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, scallions and cilantro, if desired; serve immediately.