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red lentil soup

Delicious Red Lentil Soup

This Delicious Red Lentil Soup is a healthy, comforting meal made with aromatic spices, tender red lentils, and a rich, creamy texture. It's quick to prepare, vegan, gluten-free, and packed with flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 29 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Red lentils
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 medium Carrot, peeled and diced
  • 2 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp Ground turmeric
  • 4 cups Vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) Diced tomatoes
  • Salt & pepper
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1/4 cups Fresh cilantro, chopped

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrot, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  2. Add the Spices: Stir in cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Let them toast in the oil for about 1 minute to release their aromas and deepen their flavor.
  3. Combine Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed red lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine with the spices
  4. Pour in Broth: Add vegetable broth to the pot and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed much of the liquid. Stir occasionally.
  5. Blend for Smoothness: Once the lentils are fully cooked and tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. You can blend it all for a creamy texture or leave some lentils whole for added texture.
  6. Season and Finish: Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect meal!

Notes

  • Lentil Texture: Red lentils cook quickly and break down into a creamy texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, consider using green or brown lentils, but remember to adjust the cooking time.
  • Spices: The spices in this soup, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, are essential for flavor. Don’t skip toasting them in the olive oil as it enhances their aroma and depth.
  • Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You can also blend a portion of the soup for extra creaminess.
  • Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. It’s also a great meal prep option.
  • Customizing: Add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrients. You can also add a dollop of coconut cream for extra richness if you prefer a creamier texture.
  • Storage & Freezing: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth if necessary.