This Comfort Soup Was Deemed Cheap In The '70s (But Is Considered Luxe Now) - Tasting Table

"Food trends are ever-changing. An ingredient that is considered cheap peasant food one day can evolve into a staple of fine dining years later. Lobster was famously considered food for the poor before its reputation shifted and it became the expensive, luxurious shellfish we know today. Lentil soup has experienced a similar trajectory. A plentiful, affordable, dense source of essential nutrients like protein and fiber, lentils have been part of our diet since at least 8000 B.C.E."

"But while the health food movement of the '70s did a lot to bring lentils back into the culinary mix, so to speak, many of the recipes of that time didn't prioritize flavor or indulgent ingredients. It was often all about getting the most nutrients from the healthiest, most organic ingredients while spending the least amount of money possible. When it comes to the lentil soup renaissance, it's safe to say that has changed."

"Part of the reason lentil soup is seeing such a boom these days is that "lentil soup" is a vague term that encompasses so many different dishes from so many varied cultures with incredibly different and interesting flavor profiles. There are lentil soup recipes flavored with tarragon, parsley, and lemon. Sambhar is an Indian lentil stew made with warm spices like turmeric, mustard seeds, and sambhar masala. Red lentils can also be mixed with miso and mushrooms for an umami-packed soup."

Lentils have been part of human diets since at least 8000 B.C.E., providing affordable, nutrient-dense protein and fiber. Lentil soup enjoyed popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s health-food movement, when recipes emphasized nutrition and thrift over rich flavor. Recent culinary trends have elevated lentil soup through richer ingredients and global influences, creating a renaissance of flavorful preparations. 'Lentil soup' now covers many distinct dishes, from herbed lemon versions to Indian sambhar and umami-packed red-lentil soups with miso and mushrooms. Lentils remain economical and adaptable for both home cooking and upscale cuisine.

Read at Tasting Table