There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with a steaming bowl of Spicy Lentil Soup, perfect for cozy family dinners or warming up after a brisk autumn day. This vibrant soup, rich in flavor and packed with nutritious red lentils and diced vegetables, brings comfort and cheer to any occasion. Its aromatic blend of spices and herbs creates an unforgettable experience, reminiscent of heartwarming family moments and the joy of cooking together. Let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that promises to delight your senses and bring everyone closer.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for garnish
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed red lentils, diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup slightly to thicken, leaving some chunks for texture, or blend a portion of it in a standard blender and return to the pot.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream.
Helpful Tips
- Tip: For a creamier texture, blend more of the soup to your desired consistency.
- Variation: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables.
- Easy Substitution: Replace vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pairings
This Spicy Lentil Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. To elevate your meal, serve with a chilled glass of white wine or a warm cup of herbal tea.
We hope this Spicy Lentil Soup recipe warms your home and heart as much as it does ours. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and share it with us using #ZynahzRecipes, or tag Zynahz on Instagram. We love seeing your culinary masterpieces! For more delicious recipes and updates, leave your feedback on our website Zynahz, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social media. Happy cooking!
