Warm up your kitchen and your taste buds with this delightful Curried Red Lentil Soup with Chickpeas! Bursting with rich Indian flavors and packed with nutrition, this comforting bowl of goodness is perfect for any day of the week. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only nourishes the body but also tantalizes the palate. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is your ticket to a cozy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to make a heartwarming soup that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and curry powder to the onions, stirring continuously for 30-45 seconds to release the aromatic spices and prevent burning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed red lentils. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the lentils are tender and starting to break down, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pot.
- Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the chickpeas to heat through and the soup to thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the spices as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse red lentils thoroughly to remove any impurities and ensure a cleaner taste in your soup. This step also helps in achieving a smooth texture.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Cooking the onions until they are translucent and soft enhances the flavor base of the soup, making it richer and more aromatic.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of curry powder according to your spice tolerance. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Simmer Gently: Keep an eye on the soup while it simmers. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot, ensuring an even cook.
- Customize Your Garnish: Elevate your soup with garnishes! Fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, or a squeeze of lemon juice not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavors.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days and can be frozen for longer shelf life. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with crusty bread or naan for a complete meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
