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Red Lentil Soup

Red Lentil Soup
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This Red Lentil Soup is a quick, comforting, and nutritious dish packed with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy red lentils. Perfect for chilly days, it offers a rich flavor, plant-based protein, and versatility whether enjoyed as a vegan meal or customized with toppings and sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh

Optional Variations & Garnishes

  • Red chili flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste (for spicy kick)
  • ½ cup coconut milk or 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (for creamy texture)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (added near end of cooking)
  • Cooked sausage or shredded chicken (for meatier flavor)
  • Fresh cilantro, parsley, or mint leaves (for garnish)
  • Yogurt or coconut cream swirl
  • Toasted pumpkin seeds
  • Chili oil drizzle

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness.
  2. Add Spices: Sprinkle turmeric, cumin, and coriander into the pot. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to unlock the spices’ full aroma and infuse the base with warm, inviting flavors.
  3. Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed red lentils and diced tomatoes. Mix well so the lentils can absorb the acidity of the tomatoes and spices as they cook, building depth of flavor.
  4. Pour in Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the soup thickens.
  5. Blend and Season: For a smoother texture, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transfer half to a blender. Season with salt and pepper. Finish by squeezing in fresh lemon juice to brighten all the flavors.

Notes

  • Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove dust and prevent foam.
  • Adjust broth quantity to achieve your preferred soup consistency—add more for thinner soup or less for thicker texture.
  • Don’t overblend; leave some texture for rustic heartiness.
  • Use freshly ground spices for better aroma and flavor.
  • Add lemon juice at the end to balance richness and enhance taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: red lentil soup, lentil soup, vegan soup, healthy soup, comforting soup, quick soup, gluten free soup, plant-based protein, cozy soup recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/red-lentil-soup/