{"id":1990363,"date":"2024-08-09T13:19:47","date_gmt":"2024-08-09T18:19:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/?post_type=recipe&#038;p=1990363"},"modified":"2025-06-03T11:24:52","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T16:24:52","slug":"slow-cooked-balsamic-lentil-soup","status":"publish","type":"recipe","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/slow-cooked-balsamic-lentil-soup\/","title":{"rendered":"Slow-Cooker Lentil Soup"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Looking for a simple and healthy dinner? This slow-cooker lentil soup is a classic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/dump-and-go-soup-recipes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/dump-and-go-soup-recipes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">dump-and-go soup recipe<\/a>. Just toss dried lentils, aromatic veggies, broth and a few seasonings together, then let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.\u00a0 You&#8217;ll be rewarded with a hearty, wholesome soup packed with plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.<\/p>\n<p>Right before serving, we add a few splashes of balsamic vinegar to give the dish a tangy, slightly sweet finish that brightens the earthy flavor of the lentils and vegetables. It&#8217;s the kind of cozy, make-ahead dish that&#8217;s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly snow days or anytime you&#8217;re craving a warm and nourishing meal in a bowl.<\/p>\n<h2>Slow-Cooker Lentil Soup Ingredients<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151265 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_1.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Chopped carrots, celery, onions, and red potatoes on a cutting board, with bowls of lentils, herbs, salt, pepper, parmesan, parsley, broth, soy sauce, crackers, and a spoon arranged on a white wooden surface.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Chicken broth:<\/strong> We recommend using low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness of the soup. Store-bought broth is a great time-saver, but use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/homemade-chicken-broth\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/homemade-chicken-broth\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">homemade broth<\/a> if you have it\u2014it delivers an extra layer of deep, savory flavor.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Celery, carrots and onion:<\/strong> This trio of aromatic veggies forms the base of the soup and adds natural sweetness and earthy flavor to every spoonful.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Red potatoes:<\/strong> Chopped potatoes add a hearty texture and tender bite to the soup. Waxy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/red-potato-recipes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/red-potato-recipes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">red potatoes<\/a> are best for soup recipes because they retain their shape when cooked, but Yukon golds are a good alternative.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lentils:<\/strong> Make sure you&#8217;re starting with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/what-are-lentils-and-how-to-use-them\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/what-are-lentils-and-how-to-use-them\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">dried lentils<\/a>, since precooked or canned lentils will get too soft and mushy in the slow cooker. This recipe calls for red lentils, which have a mild taste and don&#8217;t require presoaking. Brown and yellow lentils are interchangeable with red lentils, so feel free to use what&#8217;s in your pantry.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Honey:<\/strong> A tablespoon adds a subtle sweetness and helps balance the tang from the balsamic vinegar.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seasoning:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/italian-seasoning\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/italian-seasoning\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">Italian seasoning<\/a> complements the earthiness of the lentils and veggies, garlic powder boosts the aromatics, and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat. You can skip the red pepper flakes or use more if you&#8217;re craving a fiery soup.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Balsamic vinegar:<\/strong> The acidity of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/what-is-balsamic-vinegar\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/what-is-balsamic-vinegar\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">balsamic vinegar<\/a> gives the soup its signature tangy flavor and transforms it from ho-hum to amazing. Be sure to add it just before serving the soup; heating the vinegar too much diminishes its flavor.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Serving suggestions:<\/strong> Brighten your bowl of soup with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, and give it some umami with shaved Parmesan cheese. I love scooping bites of hearty lentil soup onto crackers, but crusty bread is excellent, too!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Directions<\/h2>\n<h3>Step 1: Slow-cook the soup<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151266 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_2.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"A hand pours broth from a measuring cup into a slow cooker filled with chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and red lentils. A plate with spices and seasonings sits beside the slow cooker on a white wooden surface.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>To a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker, add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, lentils and honey.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151267 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_3.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"A slow cooker filled with chopped red potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, red lentils, water, and various dried spices, ready to be cooked.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Add the seasonings<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151268 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_4.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"A hand stirs chopped vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions, in broth inside a slow cooker with a wooden spoon on a white wooden surface.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Stir to combine the ingredients. Cover and cook the soup on low until the vegetables and lentils are tender, about five to six hours.<\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Add the balsamic vinegar and serve<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151269 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_5.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"Slow Cooker Lentil Soup Ft25 275807 Jr 0530 5\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Stir in the balsamic vinegar just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each bowl with shaved Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve the soup with crackers.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151270 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_7.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"A white slow cooker filled with chunky vegetable stew, including carrots, potatoes, and celery, sits on a white wooden surface. A ladle rests inside the cooker, and stacked bowls and spoons are in the background.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Slow-Cooker Lentil Variations<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Add tomatoes:<\/strong> Create a tomato-based broth by stirring a can of crushed or fire-roasted diced tomatoes in with the other ingredients.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Customize the seasoning:<\/strong> Add a pinch of cumin for warmth, chili powder for smokiness, or a bay leaf for extra herbaceous flavor.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use more veggies:<\/strong> Try sweet potatoes instead of red potatoes, or add leafy greens, frozen green beans or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking, similar to this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegetable-lentil-soup\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/vegetable-lentil-soup\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">slow-cooker vegetable and lentil soup recipe<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Make it meaty:<\/strong> Brown a pound of Italian bulk sausage on the stovetop to add to the soup, cook the soup with a ham bone to make <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ham-and-lentil-soup\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/ham-and-lentil-soup\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">ham and lentil soup<\/a>, or stir in pulled rotisserie chicken toward the end of the cooking time.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Go vegetarian:<\/strong> Use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-vegetable-broth\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-vegetable-broth\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">vegetable broth<\/a> instead of chicken broth to make this a vegetarian and vegan-friendly soup.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>How to Store Slow-Cooker Lentil Soup<\/h2>\n<p>Let the lentil soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat leftovers in a saucepan on the stovetop or microwave a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl until it&#8217;s warm.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you freeze slow-cooker lentil soup?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can freeze this lentil soup for up to three months. After slow-cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable storage bags to make it easy to heat a bowl or two for a quick meal. Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or reheat it from frozen on the stovetop.<\/p>\n<h2>Slow-Cooker Lentil Soup Tips<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-2151271 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_8.jpg?fit=700%2C1024\" alt=\"A bowl of hearty vegetable soup with chunks of carrots, potatoes, celery, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.\" width=\"700\" height=\"1024\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><span class=\"credits-overlay\"><span class=\"image-credit noskim\">TASTE OF HOME<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Do you have to soak lentils before cooking them?<\/h3>\n<p>No, you don&#8217;t have to soak lentils before cooking them. This recipe calls for red lentils, a quick-cooking variety that will soften perfectly in the slow cooker without soaking first. Simply rinse the lentils under cool water to remove any dust or debris, then add them to the slow cooker.<\/p>\n<h3>Can you make this soup on the stovetop?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, you can make <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/lentil-soup-recipes\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/lentil-soup-recipes\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">lentil soup<\/a> on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat and saute the veggies until tender.\u00a0 Add the potatoes, lentils, broth, honey and seasonings, and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and serve the soup with your favorite toppings.<\/p>\n<h3>What can you serve with slow-cooker lentil soup?<\/h3>\n<p>This lentil soup is plenty satisfying, but a few <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/recipes-with-crackers\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/recipes-with-crackers\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">crackers<\/a> or slices of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/crusty-homemade-bread\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/recipes\/crusty-homemade-bread\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">crusty bread<\/a> are perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop of broth. Pair a bowl of soup with a fresh <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/top-10-green-salads\/\" data-name=\"www.tasteofhome.com\/collection\/top-10-green-salads\/\" data-module=\"content engagement\" data-position=\"embedded links\">green salad<\/a> or half a sandwich for a simple, easy lunch or dinner.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Balsamic vinegar and honey give this healthy soup a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Since this soup is slow-cooked, the vegetables and lentils retain their texture and don\u2019t turn into mush. \u2014Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7061,"featured_media":2151415,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ep_exclude_from_search":false},"tags":[304032,306879,304328,304993,304998,304292,305487,304338,303966,305003,304988,305004,303887,306848,306898,305020,304268,307739,324623,304078,306699,303883,307614],"categories-v2":[308623,309854,308988,308984,308481,308940,308945,308305,310796,308992,308495,308949,308935,308951,308478,309603,312688,309876,308960,259483,312932,310706,309177,308698,309004,312672,308476,312895,310591,340273],"coauthors":[344069],"recommended_recipes":[{"post_title":"Vegetable Lentil Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/vegetable-lentil-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_32216_JuliaHartbeck.jpg"},{"post_title":"Lentil-Tomato Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-tomato-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Lentil-Tomato-Soup_EXPS_TOHcom_38567_DR_01_05_5b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Beef Lentil Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/beef-lentil-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_2553_NicolePerry_4.jpg"},{"post_title":"Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/hearty-vegetable-lentil-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/exps175179_HCK163687B07_31_3b-1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Beef and Barley Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/cubed-beef-and-barley-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Cubed-Beef-and-Barley-Soup_EXPS_TOHEDSCODR22_91104_E12_02_7b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooked Beef Vegetable Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooked-beef-vegetable-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/Slow-Cooked-Beef-Vegetable-Soup_EXPS_SSBZ18_24143_B03_09_1b.jpg"},{"post_title":"Easy Lentil Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/lentil-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Easy-Lentil-Soup_EXPS_TOHVP24_277471_MR_10_15_1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooker-stuffed-pepper-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_63424_JackieAlpers_9.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Vegetable Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooker-vegetable-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_7498_JenaCarlin_4.jpg"},{"post_title":"Instant Pot Lentil Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/instant-pot-lentil-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Instant-Pot-Lentil-Soup_EXPS_TOHD24_277814_DianaRattray_6.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Chicken Vegetable Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooker-chicken-vegetable-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_177959_KristinaVanni_5.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Black Bean Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooked-black-bean-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_189463_KristinaVanni_6.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Lasagna Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooked-lasagna-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/EXPS_TOHD24_200251_LauraScherb_8.jpg"},{"post_title":"Slow-Cooker Spinach Bean Soup","post_link":"\/recipes\/slow-cooker-spinach-bean-soup\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/0001\/01\/Slow-Cooker-Spinach-Bean-Soup_EXPS_TOHCA19_83884_C03_21_2B.jpg"},{"post_title":"Pressure-Cooker Lentil Stew","post_link":"\/recipes\/pressure-cooker-lentil-stew\/","post_image":"\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Slow-Cooked-Lentil-Stew_EXPS_SSBZ18_73975_C04_11__2b_basedon-1.jpg"},{"post_title":"Pressure-Cooker Lentil and Sausage 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Lentil Soup","datePublished":"2024-08-09","dateModified":"2025-06-03","prepTime":"PT15M","cookTime":"PT05H00M","totalTime":"PT05H15M","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooked-Balsamic-Lentil-Soup_EXPS_FT25_275807_JR_0530_6.jpg","height":1200,"width":1200},"recipeCategory":["Dinner"],"description":"Warm up with a bowl of slow-cooker lentil soup. It's a nourishing, protein-packed dish made with tender lentils, aromatic vegetables and savory herbs.","recipeIngredient":["1 carton (32 ounces) reduced-sodium chicken broth","3 celery ribs, chopped","2 medium carrots, chopped","2 medium red potatoes, cut into 1\/2-inch cubes","1 cup chopped sweet onion","1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed","1 tablespoon honey","2 teaspoons Italian seasoning","1\/2 teaspoon salt","1\/2 teaspoon pepper","1\/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes","1\/4 teaspoon garlic powder","1\/4 cup balsamic vinegar","Optional: Shaved Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and crackers"],"recipeInstructions":[{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Slow-cook the soup","text":"To a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker, add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, lentils and honey. Add the seasonings Stir to combine the ingredients. Cover and cook the soup on low until the vegetables and lentils are tender, about five to six hours.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_2.jpg?fit=700,1024"},{"@type":"HowToStep","name":"Add the balsamic vinegar and serve","text":"Stir in the balsamic vinegar just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each bowl with shaved Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve the soup with crackers.","image":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Slow-Cooker-Lentil-Soup_FT25_275807_JR_0530_5.jpg?fit=700,1024"}],"recipeYield":"8 servings (2 quart)","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Sharon Lehman, RDN"}],"nutrition":{"@type":"NutritionInformation","calories":" 145 calories","fatContent":"0 fat (0 saturated fat)","cholesterolContent":"0 cholesterol","sodiumContent":"459mg sodium","carbohydrateContent":"28g carbohydrate (7g sugars","fiberContent":"4g fiber)","proteinContent":"8g protein. <b>Diabetic Exchanges<\/b>: 2 starch."},"aggregateRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"AggregateRating","ratingValue":5,"reviewCount":1,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5},"review":[{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Review","datePublished":"2024-08-12","author":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Person","name":"maryannet"},"reviewBody":"<p>easy to make, red lentils turn mushy, use other types of lentils if you want <\/p>","reviewRating":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Rating","ratingValue":5,"worstRating":1,"bestRating":5}}]},"video":{"data":{"status":204},"message":"No shortcode found in recipe"},"rms_legacy_id":"275807","romance_copy_dek":"Warm up with a bowl of slow-cooker lentil soup. 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