Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add in the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, you know it's ready. It should take about a minute or so. This step forms the flavor base for your soup.
Add in the onions and red pepper. Sauté over medium heat with a pinch of salt until the vegetables soften, which might take around 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for the onions to become translucent and tender.
At this point, add the garlic and keep sautéing for another minute until the mixture is really fragrant. The garlic should be golden but not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Add the spices: cumin, paprika, and turmeric, and sauté for a few seconds to bring out the flavors. You should smell the spices awakening, and they should cling beautifully to the onion mixture.
Now, add 1/4 cup each of the chopped parsley and cilantro. Stir them into the mixture, ensuring they’re well incorporated.
Next, add in your lentils. Mix them in and sauté for another 30 seconds. They should be well coated with the oil and spices.
Add the crushed canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season the soup with salt, adjusting to your taste. You should see the vibrant colors coming together.
Place the lid on the pot and wait for the mixture to come to a boil. This step is crucial, so keep an eye on it!
Once it comes to a boil, lower the heat to medium-low and allow the lentils to fully cook. This can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour depending on the type of lentils you’re using. Stir occasionally and ensure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Halfway through cooking, add the quinoa. Let it cook with the lentils for the remaining 20 minutes or so until everything is tender and well combined.
Once the lentils are cooked and tender, gently add the chickpeas and navy beans. Allow them to simmer in the soup for about 3 minutes. They just need to heat through.
When the soup is done, turn off the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning, then throw in the remaining chopped parsley and cilantro for freshness.
Add a squeeze of lemon before serving. Enjoy this hearty soup with loved ones!
