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sopa de lentejas recipe

My abuelita Mexican Sopa de Lentejas │ Lentils Recipe

This Mexican lentil soup is packed with nutrients, rich flavors, and a surprising touch of sweetness from bananas. Inspired by my Abuelita Conchis from Mexico City, it’s a recipe that’s been in our family for generations.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 513 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups lentils
  • 2 cups tomato chopped
  • 1 cup white onion chopped
  • 1 jalapeno chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 bananas optional
  • 5 slices bacon
  • 3 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 12 cups water
  • 1 1/2 tbsp salt
  • 1/3 tsp pepper
  • 2 bay leaves

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Bacon
    Cut the turkey bacon into thin strips and fry it in a pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  • Sauté the Vegetables
    In the same pan, sauté the garlic, onion, tomato, and jalapeño in the bacon fat until fragrant and softened.
  • Cook the Lentils
    In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the lentils, water, bay leaf, ¼ onion, 1 garlic clove, and 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes is the cooking time, until the lentils are tender.Pro Tip: If you’re using an Instant Pot, skip the bay leaf and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, followed by a natural release. However, be cautious—lentils can easily overcook in the Instant Pot!
  • Combine and Season
    Once the lentils are cooked, add the sautéed vegetables and cooked bacon to the pot. Stir to combine lentils and adjust the salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Optional Banana Topping
    For an authentic touch, add chopped banana on top before serving. You can use raw banana for sweetness or lightly fry it in olive oil, or Mazola Corn Oil for a caramelized flavor.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
My abuelita Mexican Sopa de Lentejas │ Lentils Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
513
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
12
g
18
%
Saturated Fat
 
4
g
25
%
Trans Fat
 
0.04
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
5
g
Cholesterol
 
18
mg
6
%
Sodium
 
2846
mg
124
%
Potassium
 
1331
mg
38
%
Carbohydrates
 
72
g
24
%
Fiber
 
32
g
133
%
Sugar
 
9
g
10
%
Protein
 
30
g
60
%
Vitamin A
 
750
IU
15
%
Vitamin C
 
25
mg
30
%
Calcium
 
101
mg
10
%
Iron
 
8
mg
44
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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