Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup
Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup is a nourishing dish perfect for any time of year. With a hearty blend of protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious. A touch of lemon juice adds brightness, while fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt (if desired) provide a refreshing contrast. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a wholesome plant-based option to fuel your day, this easy-to-make soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, no salt added
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Plain yogurt (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and carrot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, and coriander. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and coat the vegetables.
- Stir in the red lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more cayenne if you prefer additional heat. Add the fresh lemon juice (optional) to brighten up the flavors.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, plain yogurt, and enjoy hot!
Tips and Tricks:
- Let the onions, garlic, and carrots cook until slightly golden before adding spices. This builds a richer flavor base.
- Red lentils cook quickly and can stick to the bottom, so give the soup a stir every few minutes.
- For a silky texture, blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender.
Nutrition Facts:
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