There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty lentil soup on a chilly evening. This cozy lentil soup recipe is the perfect antidote to a cold day, brimming with flavor and packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Imagine the rich, earthy aroma filling your kitchen as the lentils simmer, infused with aromatic spices and tender vegetables. This comforting classic is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. It's the perfect weeknight meal that's both healthy and satisfying, adaptable to your preferred spice level and readily customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this comforting bowl of goodness is simpler than you think. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process to create your own perfect bowl of cozy lentil soup.
Tools Needed
- Food processor
- Soup pan
Ingredients
- Vegetables (onion, carrots, celery etc.)
- Red lentils
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Cumin seeds
- Fennel seeds
- Bay leaf
- Curry powder
- Worcestershire sauce
- Chicken or vegetable stock
- Mango chutney: 1 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper
- Oil
- Coriander
- Toasted almonds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Heat oil in a soup pan and add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and a bay leaf. Fry for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Add the blended vegetables to the pan and cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes until softened.
- Add equal measures of garlic and ginger, along with curry powder. Fry for another 30 seconds.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, stock (chicken or vegetable), rinsed red lentils, mango chutney, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes.
Step 3. Blend (Optional) and Garnish
- Blend the soup until smooth (optional – you can leave it chunky).
- Garnish with coriander and toasted almonds before serving.
Step 4. Prepare Ingredients
- Roughly chop all vegetables using a food processor. (We'll blend it later.)
Read more: Global Thanksgiving: Easy Indian Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
Tips
- Using a food processor for the vegetables saves a lot of chopping time.
- Rinsing the red lentils is important; you don’t need to soak them.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 300-350
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use other lentils besides red lentils?
Yes! Brown or green lentils work well, but keep in mind they'll require a longer cooking time. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a few chopped green chilies to increase the heat level to your liking.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This easy high-protein Indian lentil soup is a versatile and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this comforting recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite spices and vegetables to make it your own. Happy cooking!