Hearty and warming lentil soup

Method
Prep:5min  ›  Cook:30min  ›  Ready in:35min 

1. Add the olive oil to a large pot, on a medium heat, drop in the cumin seeds and then chop the onions. Oil will be heated through when onions are chopped so drop them straight in.
2. Stir until soft, then add garlic and ginger. After 30 seconds, add the turmeric and stir through. Once onions start to take on a dark golden edge, add vegetable stock and reduce heat.
3. Add lentils and stir. Add more lentils for thicker soup, less for thinner. Add salt and pepper to taste, oregano and bay leaf.
4. One quick stir, then put the lid on the pot and find something to do for 30 minutes, returning periodically to stir.
5. Pour into a bowl with a slice of crusty, fresh bread and enjoy.

Freezing tip

For a meaty version, substitute vegetable stock with chicken and add small chunks of chicken with the lentils, add 15 minutes to cooking time.

Tip

Freeze in portions - have you ever tried cracking lentil soup when it's frozen?