Lentils have become very popular in America in recent years as it is a great source of healthy protein and a delicious meal. This is my family’s recipe of Italian lentil soup. It is traditionally thought of in Italy as a vegetarian dish that is part of what the Italians refer to as cucina povera. Full of fresh ingredients from the Earth, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, lentils and more. Fast forward to today and cucina povera is now gourmet and adaptations of its origins will be found in five star michilin restaurants in Italy and the world.
Italian lentil soup in general is thought of as a hearty, nutrient dense, perfect comfort food on a cold winter day. Our grandmothers were especially fond of this soup knowing all the benefits it carries in one amazing bowl of love. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to create a symphony of flavors. You can find a variety of lentils to choose from here.
You will find a wide variety of lentils at your local market or right here. They will vary in size and color. Today I am going to show you how to make our family recipe for Italian lentil soup, from the region of Puglia. Every region of Italy has their own way of cooking. Lentils are no different, they too are steeped in tradition. For example in Umbria region they won the honor of having the best quality prized lentils from (click to purchase) Castelluccio da Norcia. If they are available to you I would highly recommend your trying them sometime. If not there are many quality lentils available locally at your market.
