Warm up with a bowl of Spicy Carrot and Lentil Soup, a nourishing and vibrant dish that’s packed with flavors and spices. This soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the hearty texture of red lentils, all enhanced by a fragrant blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a make-ahead lunch, this soup is both satisfying and healthy, offering a wonderful balance of heat, warmth, and comfort. Garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream, it’s a delightful meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 5 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Greek yogurt or coconut cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Flavor Base: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and cook for around 5 minutes, or until it becomes tender. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until their aromas are released.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook the spices for about 1 minute to toast them lightly, which will enhance their flavors.
- Cook the Vegetables and Lentils: Add the sliced carrots to the pot, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Pour in the red lentils and stir again to combine.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the lentils are fully cooked.
- Blend the Soup: Once the soup is cooked, you can blend it for a smoother texture or leave it as is for a chunkier consistency. If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Season and Finish: After blending (or leaving chunky), return the soup to the pot if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream for a cooling contrast to the spices.
Conclusion:
This Spicy Carrot and Lentil Soup is a delicious and warming meal that brings together a wonderful mix of spices, sweet carrots, and hearty lentils. The subtle heat from the cayenne pepper and the brightness of the lemon juice elevate the flavors, making this soup a standout dish. Whether you choose to enjoy it chunky or smooth, this soup is perfect for any occasion, offering a healthy, flavorful, and comforting option that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Serve it with your favorite toppings and savor the rich, spicy flavors in every spoonful.