Spicy Lentil Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Equipment:
Large pot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon
Blender (optional)
Cuisine Type: Middle Eastern
This Spicy Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that packs a flavorful punch. Made with lentils, vegetables, and a blend of spices, this soup not only warms you up but also provides a healthy dose of protein and fiber.
The combination of aromatic herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder gives the soup a delightful kick, making it perfect for chilly days or when you’re in need of comfort food. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and versatility; it can be made in under an hour, and you can adjust the spice levels to your liking.
Adding fresh herbs at the end enhances its freshness, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the overall flavor. Whether served as a main course or as a starter to your meal, this spicy lentil soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili powder. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
- Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or you can leave it chunky if you prefer. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the lemon juice for added brightness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
Extra Tips:
For added depth, consider incorporating other vegetables such as spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. If you like more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it also freezes well for future meals. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful spicy lentil soup!