Description
This hearty and warming Spicy Carrot and Red Lentil Soup is packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. The sweetness of the carrots is perfectly balanced by the heat from the spices, and the red lentils add a creamy texture to this satisfying soup. Ideal for a cozy meal on a chilly day!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Greek yogurt or coconut milk for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. - Add Spices and Aromatics:
Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped carrots and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add Lentils and Liquids:
Add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots and lentils are tender. - Blend the Soup:
Once the vegetables and lentils are cooked through, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and puree it until smooth. - Season and Finish:
Stir in the salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. If desired, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red chili flakes.
- The soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- This soup is naturally vegan, but feel free to top with yogurt or cream for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Vegan, Comfort Food, Healthy
- Method: Stovetop, Blending
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired, Vegan
Keywords: Spicy soup, carrot soup, red lentil soup, vegan soup, healthy soup, comfort food, warming soup