Cozy Red Lentil Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Goodness

The aroma of simmering spices wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. This red lentil soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience that invites you into its warm, inviting embrace.

Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this vibrant soup, each spoonful bursting with earthy flavors and comforting textures. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in need of some culinary comfort, this red lentil soup is your go-to recipe.

One day, I served my mom this red lentil soup during a family gathering, and she couldn’t stop raving about how comforting it was. Her approval meant the world to me.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Red Lentils: These little gems cook quickly and create a creamy texture without needing to soak overnight.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; choose one that feels firm for the best flavor.

• Carrots: Diced carrots bring natural sweetness and color; opt for bright orange ones for visual appeal.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse aromatic goodness; use them generously for that irresistible flavor punch.

• Vegetable Broth: Choose low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while enhancing the soup’s overall taste.

• Cumin Powder: This spice adds warmth and earthiness; use freshly ground cumin if available for a bolder flavor.

• Coriander Powder: A touch of coriander elevates the flavor profile; it complements the cumin beautifully.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté vegetables; it adds richness and a subtle fruity flavor.

• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors remarkably well.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste as they enhance all other flavors in the soup.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and peeling your carrots. Dice them along with your onion and garlic until they’re nice and fine. The finer they are, the better they’ll blend into the soup later.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in your onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—until your kitchen starts smelling like heaven.

Add Carrots & Spices: Stir in those diced carrots along with cumin and coriander powder. Let them mingle for another 5 minutes until everything softens slightly, releasing their natural sweetness.

Cook Lentils & Broth Together: Pour in vegetable broth along with rinsed red lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but still hold their shape.

Add Lemon Juice & Seasoning: Once cooked, remove from heat. Add fresh lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well—this will brighten up all those beautiful flavors!

Blend (Optional): For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches to a blender carefully. Blend until creamy as per your desired consistency.

Now you’ve got yourself a delightful bowl of red lentil soup that’s ready to be savored! Enjoy it hot with some crusty bread or over rice for an extra filling meal.

This recipe not only warms you up but also brings smiles around the dinner table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Then add spices and red lentils, followed by broth. Simmer until the lentils are tender for the best flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this soup with veggies like carrots or spinach, or swap in coconut milk for creaminess. Experiment with spices for a personal flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover red lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Creating this dish reminds me of cozy evenings spent with friends, huddled around bowls of warm soup and laughter filling the air.

FAQ

What can I use instead of vegetable broth?

Water works well, but adding herbs enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I freeze red lentil soup?

Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

How long does it take to cook red lentils?

Red lentils usually cook within 15-20 minutes when simmered properly for a smooth texture.

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Red Lentil Soup

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Warm your soul with this vibrant red lentil soup, bursting with earthy flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave culinary comfort, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for meal prep and can be customized to suit your taste. With its rich aroma and creamy consistency, each bowl promises a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Global

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep the vegetables by washing and peeling the carrots, then dice them along with the onion and garlic.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add diced carrots, cumin, and coriander; cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and red lentils; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. For a creamier texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender in batches.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg