Spiced carrot and lentil soup is a warm, hearty dish that's perfect for chilly nights or as a healthy lunch option. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this soup is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we'll go through the step-by-step process of making spiced carrot and lentil soup at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, toasted pumpkin seeds, yogurt, and lime wedges.
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent.
- Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and ginger to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add diced carrots and red lentils to the pot and stir well to coat with the spice mixture.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and carrots are tender.
- Once the soup is cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
- If the soup is too thick, add additional vegetable broth or water until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped fresh cilantro, toasted pumpkin seeds, yogurt, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Coriander Chutney Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green chili pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coriander Chutney Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve alongside the spiced carrot and lentil soup.
Tips:
- For a creamier soup, add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream to the soup after blending.
- This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- You can also add other vegetables such as sweet potatoes or butternut squash to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
Spiced carrot and lentil soup is a healthy and delicious dish that can be easily made at home with a few simple ingredients. The addition of coriander chutney gives this dish a burst of fresh flavor, and the optional toppings add texture and crunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
