This soup has everything you need. Full of vitamins and minerals from the veggies and protein and fiber from the legumes, it is truly the perfect nutrient-rich, detox soup. Honestly, it will clean your body out! I slightly adapted it from Pinch of Yum’s “The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup” and it can easily be made in a crockpot or pressure cooker. Just transfer to slow cooker after sautéing the veggies and set to cook for 4 hours. It is gluten-free, vegan (if you use veg broth) but I do like to eat mine with a little parmesan cheese Enjoy!
In today’s fast-paced world, where processed foods and unhealthy eating habits have become the norm, the need for nourishing, detoxifying meals has never been more critical. One such culinary gem that stands out in the realm of detoxification is lentil and split pea soup. With its rich nutritional profile and cleansing properties, this hearty soup has earned a well-deserved reputation as a staple in detox diets worldwide. As we delve into the world of detox lentil and split pea soup, we uncover not only its health benefits but also its versatility, making it a beloved choice for those seeking to revitalize their bodies and minds.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Lentils and split peas serve as the cornerstone of this detox soup, offering a plethora of essential nutrients vital for overall well-being. Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, folate, and potassium, this soup provides a substantial nutritional boost with every spoonful. These nutrients not only support detoxification processes but also promote optimal bodily functions, enhancing energy levels and vitality.
- Gut Health Support: The high fiber content found in lentils and split peas plays a crucial role in promoting gut health, aiding in digestion and regularity. As a detoxifying agent, fiber helps to flush out toxins and waste from the digestive tract, reducing bloating and discomfort. Additionally, the presence of prebiotics in these legumes nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a healthy gut microbiome essential for overall immunity and well-being.
- Detoxification Benefits: Lentils and split peas are renowned for their detoxification properties, helping the body eliminate harmful toxins accumulated from environmental pollutants, processed foods, and other sources. Sulforaphane, a compound found in both lentils and split peas, supports liver detoxification pathways, enhancing the body’s ability to neutralize and excrete toxins effectively. Moreover, the abundance of antioxidants in these legumes helps combat oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and supporting cellular health.
- Satiety and Weight Management: Incorporating lentil and split pea soup into a detox regimen can aid in weight management and promote feelings of satiety. The combination of protein and fiber found in these legumes helps to curb cravings and regulate appetite, preventing overeating and promoting healthy weight loss. By nourishing the body with nutrient-dense ingredients, this soup offers a satisfying meal option without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
- Versatility in Flavor and Preparation: One of the greatest appeals of lentil and split pea soup lies in its versatility, allowing for endless variations to suit individual tastes and preferences. From traditional recipes infused with aromatic herbs and spices to modern interpretations incorporating exotic ingredients, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Whether enjoyed as a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening or as a refreshing chilled soup during warmer months, this detoxifying dish can be tailored to suit any occasion or culinary craving.
- Sustainable and Budget-Friendly: In addition to its nutritional and detoxification benefits, lentil and split pea soup offers a sustainable and budget-friendly solution for healthy eating. As pantry staples with a long shelf life, lentils and split peas are readily available year-round and are affordable options for households of all sizes. By choosing plant-based protein sources like legumes, individuals can reduce their environmental footprint while promoting sustainable food practices that benefit both the planet and personal health.
In conclusion, detox lentil and split pea soup exemplify the perfect marriage of nutrition, flavor, and convenience, making it an invaluable addition to any detox regimen or healthy eating plan. With its myriad health benefits, versatility, and affordability, this nourishing soup continues to captivate taste buds and promote well-being in kitchens around the globe.
DETOX LENTIL AND SPILT PEA SOUP
PREP TIME
10 mins
COOK TIME
50 mins
TOTAL TIME
1 hour
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes)
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, picked over and rinsed
- ¾ cup yellow split peas (or just use more lentils), picked over and rinsed
- 8–10 cups vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon salt
- fresh ground pepper
- 2–3 cups kale center ribs removed, chopped)
- Optional toppings: grated parmesan cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 2 more minutes. Add carrots, celery, squash and cook, stirring often, until vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
- Add lentils, split peas, stock, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, partially cover, and cook until legumes are soft, about 40 minutes.
- Place about 3 cups of soup in a blender. Process until smooth and add back to the pot and stir to combine. Stir in the kale and simmer for five minutes. Turn the heat off, adjust the seasonings, and add lemon juice.
- Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.