Discover the heartwarming flavors of India with our Spiced Vegetarian Lentil Soup—a delightful dish that's not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly easy to make! Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this soup is a symphony of spices and wholesome ingredients that will warm you from the inside out. Imagine the comforting aroma of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delicious meal. With just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dish that serves six—ideal for meal prep or sharing with loved ones. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris or impurities, then set aside.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate diced carrots into the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften.
- Sprinkle curry powder and cumin over the vegetables, stirring to evenly distribute the spices and toast them lightly for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and soup has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup seems too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any debris or impurities, ensuring a clean and tasty soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger. The key to a flavorful soup lies in developing the base; aim for a golden color and fragrant aroma.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder and cumin to suit your taste. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies!
- Simmer for Tenderness: Allow the soup to simmer for the full 35-40 minutes. This not only softens the lentils but also melds the flavors beautifully.
- Consistency Matters: If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your soup by garnishing with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt just before serving. It adds a pop of color and a refreshing finish!
- Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
