Bulgarian Lentil Soup

Warm, hearty, and bursting with rich, earthy flavors, Bulgarian Lentil Soup is a comforting classic that brings Old World charm to your kitchen. This wholesome recipe combines tender green or brown lentils with a medley of sautéed vegetables—onion, carrot, and celery—enhanced by aromatic garlic, paprika, and thyme. A touch of tomato paste adds depth to the broth, while a bay leaf infuses every bite with subtle herbaceous notes. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot wonder is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a complete and nutritious meal. Packed with plant-based protein and gluten-free, this traditional Bulgarian soup is a must-try for lentil lovers and soup enthusiasts alike!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 6 cups water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils under cold water, picking out any debris or damaged lentils. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 5

Add the tomato paste, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices and allow the flavors to bloom, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6

Pour in the rinsed lentils and the water. Stir well and add the bay leaf.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Step 8

Season with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Step 9

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 10

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2005.8 grams (2005.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	629

Total Fat 29.90g	38%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2566mg	112%
Total Carbohydrate 73.00g	27%
Dietary Fiber 24.70g	88%
Total Sugars 17.70g
Protein 23.30g	47%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 265mg	20%
Iron 10mg	55%
Potassium 1854mg	39%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.1%

Protein: 14.2%

Carbs: 44.6%