Spiced Red Lentil Soup

A comforting and hearty soup, this Spiced Red Lentil Soup is packed with flavor and warmth. Its vibrant color and aromatic spices make it a perfect choice for a chilly evening.

Spiced Red Lentil Soup
  • Prep time: 11 minutes
  • Cook time: 36 minutes
  • Total time: 47 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: International

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. For a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tips

  • Rinsing the lentils removes any dust or debris.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper for your desired level of spice.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store leftover lentil soup?

Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, this soup is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.

What can I use instead of red lentils?

While red lentils break down easily and create a creamy texture, you could substitute brown or green lentils. They will require a longer cooking time and may not achieve the same creamy consistency.