Weeknight Laotian Stewed Lentils Soup

Assemble the ingredients: lentils, butter, parsley, lemon juice, garlic, bay leaf, flour.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the lentils and cook until stewed.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of Laotian flavors.

Add the remaining ingredients and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; the flavor should deepen as it cooks.

Plate and serve with traditional Laotian accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.