Do I need to soak green lentils?
Nope. Green lentils do not need soaking. Just rinse them and pick out any tiny stones or broken bits.
How long do green lentils take to cook in soup?
Most green lentils are tender in about 25 to 35 minutes at a gentle simmer. Older lentils can take a little longer, so keep an eye on them and add a splash more broth if needed.
Why are my lentils still hard?
Usually one of three things: your lentils are old, the soup is not actually simmering, or it just needs more time (especially with very hard water). Adding acid early can slow softening for some batches, so add the lemon at the end and simmer until tender.
Can I use brown lentils instead of green lentils?
Yes. Brown lentils cook similarly and hold their shape well. Red lentils will work too, but they break down and make the soup much thicker and softer.
What kind of green lentils should I use?
Standard green lentils and French green (Puy) lentils both work. French green lentils tend to stay a little firmer and may take a few extra minutes.
How do I make this soup vegan?
Use vegetable broth and skip the yogurt swirl, or swap in a plant-based yogurt. Finish with extra olive oil and lemon for richness.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and spices first for better flavor, then cook on low 6 to 7 hours or high 3 to 4 hours until lentils are tender. Slow cookers vary, so start checking around 5 hours on low or 2 1/2 hours on high. Add lemon, dill, and spinach at the end.
