Tempeh Lentil Soup with Freekeh

In our culinary journey, we rarely rely on prepared foods, but tempeh bacon is an exception we gladly make. In this delightful Tempeh Lentil Soup with Freekeh, the smoky undertones of the tempeh bacon pair perfectly with earthy lentils, while the addition of cauliflower florets adds a light and vibrant flavor. This soup is a bowl full of awesome, combining a medley of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.

YIELD: 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) high heat neutral-flavored oil
• 1 package (6 ounces or 170 g) tempeh bacon, chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, minced
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 cup (100 g) small cauliflower florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or additional water
• 1/2 cup (96 g) French green lentils
• 6 cups (1.4 L) water
• 2 teaspoons (12 g) vegan bouillon paste
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) tamari
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
• 1/2 cup (116 g, weight varies) cooked cracked freekeh, einkorn, or barley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon (4 g) minced fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat the high heat neutral-flavored oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped tempeh bacon and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns brown and slightly crispy. Reduce the heat to medium.
3. Stir in the minced onion, chopped carrot, chopped celery, cauliflower florets, minced garlic, dried basil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and dried tarragon. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrance.
4. Pour in the dry white wine, stirring to scrape any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot.
5. Add the French green lentils, water, vegan bouillon paste, tamari, and liquid smoke (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the lentils become tender.
6. Stir in the cooked cracked freekeh, einkorn, or barley to add a delightful nutty flavor and texture to the soup. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
7. Finally, stir in the minced fresh parsley, adding a burst of freshness to the Tempeh Lentil Soup.

This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends. With the perfect balance of smokiness from the tempeh bacon and the heartiness of lentils and freekeh, this soup will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

So, let the aroma of this soul-satisfying soup fill your kitchen, and indulge in the wholesome goodness of tempeh, lentils, and freekeh, blended together in a symphony of flavors that will leave you yearning for more. Gather your loved ones, share in the warmth of this nourishing soup, and cherish the moments spent savoring its delightful taste. Enjoy each spoonful of this Tempeh Lentil Soup with Freekeh, a celebration of earthy goodness and culinary brilliance.