Sochevychnyi Sup (Ukrainian Red Lentil Soup)

Method

1. 1

   Rinse the lentils in a sieve under cold water until it runs clear.

2. 2

   Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook the onion and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir in the garlic and paprika and cook 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the lentils, canned tomato, vegetable stock and bay leaf; bring to a boil.

5. 5

   Reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the lentils have fully broken down and the soup thickens, about 20 minutes.

   💡 Red lentils cook down completely — that's what gives this soup its body, no blender needed.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper and discard the bay leaf.

7. 7

   Ladle into bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a scatter of dill.