Imagine a soup so creamy, so flavorful, and so satisfying that it instantly transports you to the vibrant streets of India with just one spoonful. This Peanut Curry Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, nutty essence of peanut butter with the warm, aromatic embrace of curry powder. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving a hearty, nutritious dish that comes together in under 45 minutes, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that will impress both family and dinner guests alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or dust, then drain and set aside.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sauté the diced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle curry powder into the pot and stir to coat the onions and garlic, allowing the spices to bloom and release their essential oils for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Whisk the peanut butter in a separate bowl to soften, then gradually stir it into the simmering soup, ensuring it blends smoothly without creating lumps.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with chopped cilantro, a drizzle of extra peanut butter, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Tips
- Lentil Selection Matters: Use brown or green lentils for the best texture and they hold their shape well during cooking.
- Bloom Your Spices: Take extra time when adding curry powder to really toast and release its full flavor potential. This crucial step elevates the entire dish's taste profile.
- Peanut Butter Technique: Whisk the peanut butter separately before adding to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Consistency is Key: If the soup becomes too thick, don't hesitate to add a bit more vegetable broth to achieve your desired texture.
- Customize Your Garnish: Experiment with toppings like fresh cilantro, a drizzle of extra peanut butter, or red pepper flakes to make the dish uniquely yours.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup actually tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make a larger batch for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
