Recipes

Chef D's Cozy Lentil Soup

(Perfect for cold Toronto winters – simple, nutritious, and kid-approved with its smooth texture!)

Recipe Title: Cozy Red Lentil Soup

Serves: 4–6 (great for family lunch or light dinner)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium potatoes (keep skins on for extra nutrition!)

• 2 stalks celery

• 1 large carrot

• 2 cups red lentils

• 5 cups water

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (for a warm "kick")

• ¼ tsp dried thyme

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, bring 2.5 cups of water to a boil. Add all the spices (cinnamon, thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper).

2. Wash and chop the potatoes, celery, and carrot into small pieces (smaller chunks cook faster – great tip for busy parents!). Keep potato skins on for added fiber.

3. Add the chopped veggies and 2 cups of red lentils to the boiling spiced water.

4. Boil everything together for about 10–15 minutes until tender (skim off any foam that rises to the top).

5. Once soft, puree the soup until smooth (like applesauce consistency) using a hand blender or regular blender.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot!

Fun Tips from Chef Dee (and Culinary Kids Toronto):

• This soup is cheap, healthy, and warms the soul on chilly Canadian nights.

• Serve with crusty bread for crunch or a fresh salad on the side.

• Kid-friendly: The smooth puree hides the veggies – perfect for picky eaters! Add a fun swirl of yogurt on top for "snow."

• Allergy note: Naturally gluten-free and vegan.