Nigella Chestnut And Lentil Soup

Dive into the comfort of Nigella Lawson's Chestnut and Lentil Soup, a luxurious blend that's not only pleasing to the palate but also vegan-friendly, making it a perfect choice for everyone. This recipe, featured in Nigella's renowned culinary works, brings together the earthy tones of lentils with the sweet richness of chestnuts, creating a harmonious dish that's both nutritious and indulgent.

Ingredients for the Chestnut and Lentil Soup

• Red Lentils: 225g, forming the hearty base of the soup.
• Vegetables: A mix of 1 small onion, ½ leek (or a whole for a more intense flavor), 1 carrot, and 1 stick of celery, finely chopped for a textured broth.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, to sauté the vegetables and lend a smooth richness to the soup.
• Vegetable Stock: 2½ liters, to simmer the ingredients and bring out their flavors.
• Seasonings: Generous pinches of salt and pepper for taste.
• Chestnuts: A tin of pureed chestnuts (or Clement Faugier peeled chestnuts for authenticity), adding a unique sweetness and depth.

Preparation Instructions

1. Vegetable Prep: Begin by finely chopping the onion, leek, carrot, and celery.
2. Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan and sauté the chopped vegetables until they soften.
3. Simmer the Lentils: Add the red lentils and vegetable stock to the pan, bringing it to a boil before reducing to a simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Introduce Chestnuts: Stir in the chestnut puree and continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Blend for Smoothness: Once the ingredients are fully cooked, blend the soup to a smooth consistency, adding water if necessary to achieve the desired thickness.
6. Final Touches: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. For an added touch of elegance, a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of parsley can be added just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or stock if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

Nutritional Information

This Chestnut and Lentil Soup is packed with fiber from the lentils and vitamins from the vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. Chestnuts add a dose of antioxidants and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal.

FAQ about the Chestnut and Lentil Soup

• Can I use another type of lentil?: Yes, while red lentils are preferred for their texture and quick cooking time, other types can be used with adjusted cooking times.
• Is this soup gluten-free?: Yes, the ingredients in this soup are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of store-bought stock or chestnut puree to be sure.

This recipe pays homage to the original culinary creation of Nigella Lawson, promising a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any table​​​​.