Luscious Lentil Soup with Freshly Baked Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

Warm and comforting, this hearty lentil soup with whole wheat bread is a perfect meal for a cozy night in. This protein-packed dish is not only healthy but also incredibly delicious. The fragrant aroma of lentils, herbs, and spices will fill your kitchen with a mouth-watering smell that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Add chopped carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
3. Add vegetable broth, green lentils, cumin, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with a slice of freshly baked whole wheat bread.

For the Whole Wheat Bread:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add warm water and olive oil and stir until the dough comes together.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or rectangular loaf. Place on a greased baking sheet and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Remove from oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
7. Slice and serve with the lentil soup.