Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a warm bowl of Curried Lentil Rice Soup Mix! This delightful Indian-inspired dish combines the heartiness of lentils and rice with the aromatic spices of curry and cumin, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 30 minutes of cooking, you can create a nourishing meal that serves four, all while filling your kitchen with irresistible scents. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Dive into this article to discover the secrets of crafting this flavorful masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or excess starch.
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Sprinkle curry powder and cumin into the pot, stirring to coat the onions and garlic. Toast the spices for about 1 minute to enhance their flavor profile.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils and rice. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the lentils and rice for tenderness. The soup should have a thick, creamy consistency. Add salt to taste during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils and rice well under cold water to remove any debris and excess starch. This step is crucial for achieving a clean flavor and preventing the soup from becoming too sticky.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. Allow them to become nicely golden to enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor, which will elevate your soup.
- Toast Your Spices: Don’t skip the step of toasting the curry powder and cumin! This simple technique releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavors, making your soup even more aromatic and delicious.
- Simmer Gently: Once you bring the soup to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. This slow cooking process allows the lentils and rice to absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, resulting in a richer taste.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add a little more vegetable broth during the last few minutes of cooking. Conversely, for a creamier texture, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Garnish for Freshness: Serve your soup hot and consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like cilantro or a dollop of yogurt. These toppings not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall flavor and presentation of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
