Hearty & Flavorful Mexican Lentil Soup (Sopa de Lentejas) with Crispy Bacon & Spicy Jalapeño

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite Mexican Lentil Soup, known as Sopa de Lentejas. This recipe masterfully combines tender, earthy lentils with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon and the perfect kick of spicy jalapeño. It’s a dish that’s not only incredibly delicious and packed with flavor, but also surprisingly easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and remarkably nutritious. Whether you prefer the speed of an Instant Pot or the traditional charm of a stovetop, we’ve got you covered with detailed directions for both methods.

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Growing up, few dishes brought more comfort and joy to our dinner table than my mom’s Sopa de Lentejas. It was always a vibrant symphony of flavors – rich, tender lentils infused with the smoky essence of bacon, brightened by the fresh heat of jalapeños. This soup wasn’t just a meal; it was a warm hug in a bowl, a cornerstone of our family traditions, and a testament to the simple, hearty goodness of Mexican home cooking.

When I embarked on my own culinary journey after marriage, this cherished lentil soup was among the very first recipes I eagerly learned from my mother. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, a dish I now prepare several times a month. My husband absolutely adores it, and I find immense satisfaction in making it for my children. Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition and protein, making this soup an ideal way to ensure they get a wholesome, filling meal. While my little ones are still too young to fully appreciate a fiery kick, I’ve developed a clever, kid-friendly solution that allows everyone to enjoy this delicious soup. You’ll find my special tip for adjusting the spice level at the end of this post!

About This Recipe: The Authentic Mexican Lentil Soup Experience

The world of Mexican Sopa de Lentejas is wonderfully diverse, with countless variations reflecting regional traditions and family secrets. A quick search online will show you just how many unique interpretations exist! This recipe, however, is deeply rooted in the authentic flavors and methods passed down through generations in my family. It’s a celebration of traditional Mexican ingredients coming together to create a profoundly satisfying and flavorful experience.

Sopa de Lentejas is a beloved and ubiquitous dish throughout Mexico, cherished for its affordability, ease of preparation, and incredible nutritional value. The foundation of this comforting soup always starts with dried brown lentils, but the magic truly happens with the selection of vegetables, seasonings, and special additions that give each recipe its distinct character. My mom’s rendition, featuring crispy bacon and fresh jalapeño, has always been my absolute favorite. The bacon introduces an unparalleled depth of smoky flavor and a delightful textural contrast, while the jalapeño adds just the right amount of warmth and zest, elevating the soup from good to truly extraordinary. It’s a wholesome, flavorful meal that brings the heart of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Mexican Lentil Soup

• Nutritious Powerhouse: Lentils are often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason! They are an exceptional source of plant-based protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth, and packed with dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Beyond that, lentils are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium, contributing to overall health and sustained energy levels. This soup is a delicious way to nourish your body with every spoonful. Click here to explore more about the remarkable health benefits of lentils.
• Budget-Friendly Meal Solution: In today’s world, finding meals that are both delicious and economical is a huge win. Lentils are incredibly inexpensive, making this soup a fantastic option for feeding your family without breaking the bank. A small quantity of dried lentils expands significantly when cooked, yielding a generous pot of soup that can provide multiple servings or even last for several meals throughout the week, making it a savvy choice for meal planning and saving money.
• Remarkably Easy and Quick to Prepare: Forget long soaking times and extended cooking sessions often associated with other legumes. Lentils boast a much faster cooking time, allowing you to whip up this hearty and flavorful soup even on the busiest weeknights. Its straightforward preparation makes it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a comforting meal without the fuss, proving that healthy, delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Instant Pot and Stovetop Directions: This recipe offers the best of both worlds, ensuring everyone can enjoy this soup regardless of their kitchen equipment. For years, I relied on my trusty stovetop pressure cooker, just like my mom. You can absolutely achieve tender lentils in a regular pot on the stovetop, and detailed instructions are included. However, since being gifted an Instant Pot by my mom, I’ve discovered its unparalleled convenience. This handy device cooks lentils perfectly and quickly, making it a game-changer for modern cooking.
• The Irresistible Bacon Factor: What truly sets this lentil soup apart and takes its flavor profile to an entirely new dimension is the judicious addition of crispy bacon. The smoky, salty notes from the bacon permeate the entire soup, creating a rich and savory base that is utterly addictive. Frying the vegetables in a bit of the rendered bacon grease further enhances this incredible depth of flavor, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with a complexity that will leave you craving more.

The Essential Ingredients for Unforgettable Flavor

Each ingredient in this Mexican Lentil Soup plays a crucial role in building its signature rich and vibrant flavor profile. Sourcing fresh, quality components will make a noticeable difference in the final taste.

• Brown Lentils: These are among the most commonly used and versatile types of lentils. Valued for their mild, earthy flavor and ability to hold their shape remarkably well during cooking, they are perfect for hearty soups and stews. Unlike some other legumes, brown lentils do not require pre-soaking, which significantly speeds up the preparation process.
• Water: Essential for both rinsing the dried lentils before cooking to remove any impurities and providing the initial liquid base for them to soften. You may also need additional hot water at the end to achieve your desired “soupy” consistency, as lentils can absorb a lot of liquid.
• Chicken Broth: This is where much of the foundational flavor for the soup comes from. Using chicken broth instead of just water infuses the lentils with a savory depth. For an added boost of nutrients and protein, consider opting for chicken bone broth, which will enrich the soup even further.
• Bacon: The star ingredient that adds an incredible layer of smoky, savory deliciousness. Crispy pieces of bacon provide a wonderful textural contrast, while rendering the bacon first creates flavorful grease that is then used to sauté the vegetables, building an essential flavor base for the entire soup.

The remaining ingredients are staples in Mexican cuisine, contributing to the authentic and aromatic essence of this Sopa de Lentejas:

• Jalapeño: Delivers a fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced level of heat to the soup. If you prefer less spice, you can remove the seeds and membranes; for more heat, keep them in!

• Garlic: An indispensable aromatic that forms the backbone of flavor in countless Mexican dishes, providing a pungent, savory depth.

• Onion: When sautéed, white onion releases a sweet, aromatic base that complements the other vegetables and spices beautifully.

• Tomato: Diced Roma tomatoes add a crucial touch of acidity, freshness, and a subtle sweetness that brightens the entire soup and balances the richer flavors.

• Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro is used both in the soup and as a garnish, offering a distinctive, bright, and herbaceous note that is synonymous with Mexican cooking.

• Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that are essential for bringing out and enhancing all the complex flavors of the soup to perfection. Always adjust to taste.

How to Craft Your Perfect Sopa de Lentejas

Creating this flavorful Mexican Lentil Soup is a rewarding experience, combining simple techniques to build layers of incredible taste. Whether you choose the speed of an Instant Pot or the comforting simmer of a stovetop, the journey to a delicious bowl of Sopa de Lentejas begins with care and fresh ingredients.

This section provides a detailed breakdown of the steps, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome. From preparing the lentils to building the rich flavor base, each instruction is designed to guide you through the process with ease, whether you’re using a modern pressure cooker or a traditional pot.

Instant Pot Directions

1. Prepare the Lentils with Precision

• Begin by carefully sorting through the 1 ½ cups of dried, brown lentils. This crucial step ensures you remove any small debris or tiny pebbles that might be mixed in. Once sorted, place the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer or colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear.
• Transfer the rinsed lentils into your Instant Pot. Add 2 cups of water along with 3 cups of rich chicken broth for an enhanced flavor base. Secure the lid onto the Instant Pot, making sure to set the valve to the “sealing” position.
• Set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 12 minutes. If you prefer a softer, more tender lentil texture (ideal for a creamier soup), you can extend the cooking time to 15 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully move the pressure release valve from the sealing position to the venting position to quickly release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.

2. Fry the Bacon to Crispy Perfection

• While your lentils are cooking in the Instant Pot, take this time to dice your bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. If your bacon is particularly fatty, you might want to remove some of the excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy. In a deep pot or a sturdy Dutch oven, fry the diced bacon pieces over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully golden brown and delightfully crispy. Remove the crispy bacon bits and set aside, leaving a small amount of the rendered bacon grease in the pot to use for sautéing the vegetables.

3. Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables for a Flavorful Base

• Using the savory bacon grease left in the pot (or adding a touch of olive oil if preferred), add the diced jalapeño, finely diced white onion, and minced garlic cloves. Sauté these aromatics over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion and jalapeño become tender and release their fragrant aromas, forming a rich base for your soup.
• Next, add 1 diced Roma tomato to the pot. Continue to sauté for just another minute, allowing the tomato to soften slightly and release its juices, adding a touch of acidity and sweetness to the vegetable medley.

4. Assemble and Season Your Hearty Soup

• Carefully add the cooked lentils from the Instant Pot, along with any remaining cooking liquid, into the pot with the sautéed vegetables and bacon grease. Stir everything together. If you find the soup is too thick or prefer a more “soupy” consistency, you can gradually add ½ to 1 cup of hot water until it reaches your desired texture.
• Season the soup generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro, which will add a burst of authentic Mexican flavor and brightness.
• Bring the soup to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. After 5 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. I often find myself adding about another ½ teaspoon of salt to perfectly balance the flavors.
• Ladle the warm, comforting Mexican Lentil Soup into bowls. Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon bits and perhaps a little extra fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, and serve immediately.

Stovetop Directions

1. Traditional Lentil Preparation

• If you don’t have an Instant Pot, cooking these delicious lentils on the stovetop is a perfectly viable and traditional method.
• Begin by carefully sorting through the lentils, picking out any debris or small pebbles. Afterward, place the lentils in a strainer or colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
• Combine the rinsed lentils with 2 cups of water and 3 cups of chicken broth in a medium-sized pot. Bring this liquid mixture to a rapid boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat significantly to a gentle simmer.
• Cover the pot with a lid and let the lentils simmer for 20-35 minutes, or until they are soft and tender, yet still hold their shape and are not mushy. To achieve the perfect texture, start checking their doneness at the 20-minute mark and continue to check every 5 minutes thereafter until they reach your desired consistency.

2. Continue with Flavor Building

• Once your lentils are cooked to perfection using the stovetop method, proceed to follow the same directions outlined in the Instant Pot steps for frying the bacon, meticulously sautéing the vegetables, and finally, assembling the soup. This ensures the full development of the rich, savory, and aromatic flavors that make this Mexican Lentil Soup truly special.

How to Serve Your Delicious Mexican Lentil Soup

This hearty Mexican Lentil Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. My absolute top recommendation, inspired by my mom’s cherished tradition, is to serve this comforting soup alongside some Spicy Sardine Empanadas. The unique combination of the rich, savory lentils with the crispy, flavorful empanadas is truly out of this world and creates an unforgettable culinary experience!

Here are some other delightful ideas on how to serve this wonderfully flavorful soup:

• With Warm, Crusty Bread or Tortillas: A classic pairing, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. Offer warm, crusty bread for a European touch, or traditional warm corn or flour tortillas for an authentic Mexican experience.
• Alongside Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas make a fantastic and satisfying accompaniment. The mild, melted cheese and soft tortillas provide a lovely contrast to the robust flavors of the lentil soup.
• As an Appetizer or First Course: This elegant yet rustic soup can serve as a wonderful starter for a larger meal, whetting appetites with its inviting aroma and wholesome goodness before the main entree.
• Garnish Galore: Elevate each bowl with fresh toppings like a dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream, a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness, extra chopped cilantro, or even some crumbled queso fresco for a touch of salty tang.

Storing and Reheating Your Sopa de Lentejas

This Mexican Lentil Soup is fantastic for meal prep and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing and storing.
• Freezing: For longer storage, transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: When reheating, you might notice that the lentils have absorbed some of the liquid, resulting in a thicker consistency. If you prefer a more “soupy” texture, simply add a little more chicken broth or hot water as it warms up.
• Methods for Reheating: To reheat, gently pour the soup into a small pot and warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl until thoroughly warm, stirring halfway through.

Clever Tips and Delicious Variations to Try

This Mexican Lentil Soup recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Experiment with these tips and variations to make it uniquely your own!

• Kid-Friendly Version for the Little Ones: To make this soup enjoyable for even the most sensitive palates, simply omit the jalapeño during the initial cooking process. Prepare the rest of the soup as directed. Once the soup is fully cooked and ready to serve, ladle out the desired portions for your children. Then, for the adults, add the diced jalapeño to the remaining soup in the pot and let it simmer for an additional couple of minutes. This allows the spice to infuse without overwhelming the kids’ servings.
• Amp Up the Heat for Spice Lovers: If you crave a more intense kick, don’t hesitate to add an extra jalapeño to the soup. For those who truly enjoy significant heat, consider substituting the jalapeño with a serrano pepper. Serranos are notably spicier than jalapeños, so use them with caution and adjust to your preferred spice level!
• Make it Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly: Transforming this hearty soup into a vegetarian or vegan delight is simple. Begin by entirely omitting the bacon from the recipe. In its place, use a good quality vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add a layer of smoky depth that bacon typically provides, consider incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika or even some sautéed mushrooms for an umami boost.
• Add More Vegetables: This soup is a fantastic canvas for incorporating more vegetables. Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers (red or green), or small cubes of potatoes along with the onion and jalapeño for extra nutrients and texture.
• A Zesty Finish: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can brighten all the flavors in the soup, adding a refreshing tang that truly complements the Mexican profile.

I hope this hearty and flavorful Mexican Lentil Soup becomes a beloved staple in your home, just as it is in mine. Enjoy the rich tastes and comforting warmth it brings!

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW IF YOU MAKE THIS OR TAG ME ON INSTAGRAM @EVERYDAYLATINA.

Explore More Delicious Soup Recipes

If you loved this Sopa de Lentejas, be sure to check out these other comforting and flavorful soup recipes from my kitchen:

• Caldo de Albóndigas (Mexican Meatball Soup) – A classic, hearty meatball soup brimming with vegetables and savory broth.
• Sopa de Verduras (Mexican Vegetable Soup) – A vibrant and wholesome vegetable soup, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Sopa de Tortilla Azteca (Tortilla Soup) – A rich, flavorful broth adorned with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and more.
• Ground Beef Stew with Jalapeño – A robust and warming stew with a gentle kick of jalapeño.
• Pantry White Chicken Chili with Hominy – An easy-to-make chili using pantry staples, perfect for busy evenings.
• Vegan Asparagus Soup – A creamy and refreshing soup that celebrates the delicate flavors of fresh asparagus.

Recipe

Seeking more ingenious ways to cook lentils using your Instant Pot?

One of my recent culinary fascinations for Instant Pot lentil cooking comes from an incredible recipe by Urvashi Pitre, the “Instant Pot Queen.” Her approach to Lebanese Lentils and Rice is truly exceptional, offering another delightful way to prepare this versatile legume. You can discover the link to her fantastic recipe for Lebanese Lentils and Rice right here.

I am also a proud owner of her Instant Pot cookbook, and I can attest that it is an absolutely amazing resource for anyone looking to master pressure cooking! It’s filled with innovative and delicious recipes that make meal preparation a breeze. Below, you’ll find convenient links to her highly recommended cookbook, as well as to the specific Instant Pot model I personally own and wholeheartedly love.

Originally published July 10, 2019. Updated post October 2022.