Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe

If you are looking for a hearty, comforting dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and warms you from the inside out, then this Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a beautiful balance of earthy spices, tender red lentils, and fresh vegetables that come together effortlessly in a cozy bowl. Whether you’re new to cooking lentil soups or a seasoned pro, this recipe’s ease and soul-soothing taste will quickly make it a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building depth, texture, and flavor. You’ll see how easy it is to gather these essentials and turn them into a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

• 1 cup Red Lentils: Rinsed and cleaned to remove any debris, these lentils cook quickly and provide a creamy, nutritious base.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped for a subtle, sweet foundation when sautéed.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to add a fragrant punch that elevates the soup’s flavor.
• 1 medium Carrot: Diced to contribute a touch of natural sweetness and texture.
• 1 stalk Celery: Diced for a crisp depth and slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.
• 4 cups Vegetable Broth: Quality broth enhances the soup’s richness and carries the spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy spice that is integral to the soup’s character.
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric: Gives a gorgeous golden hue and a subtle, slightly peppery flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder: Lends a fresh, lemony undertone that complements the lentils perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, these basic seasonings bring the entire dish into balance.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to brighten and finish the soup with a refreshing zing.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish to add a burst of vibrant color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Lentils

Start by rinsing your red lentils under cold water. This step is important to wash away any dust or impurities so your soup turns out clean and smooth. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear, then set them aside to drain.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add your finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they turn translucent and start releasing their natural sweetness. This step creates the flavorful base that will develop into the hearty broth.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir frequently for 1 to 2 minutes to prevent burning but allow the garlic to become fragrant. This elevates the soup’s aromatic profile.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

Incorporate the diced carrot and celery. Cook these together with the onions and garlic for another 5 minutes. This softens the vegetables while preserving just enough of their texture to add interest to the soup.

Step 5: Combine Lentils and Vegetables

Stir the rinsed lentils into the pot, making sure they’re evenly mixed with the sautéed vegetables. This ensures every spoonful of your Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe has a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Step 6: Add Broth and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth, enough to cover all the ingredients comfortably. Sprinkle in cumin, turmeric, and coriander powder, then stir everything together. These spices will infuse the soup with a warm, complex flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Season and Simmer

Add salt and pepper to taste, then bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the lentils to soften and the flavors to fully meld into a luscious, thick bowl of comfort.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon Juice

After the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened beautifully, stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. This brightens the soup, balancing the earthiness of the spices and lending a lovely fresh note that makes every spoonful pop.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, ladle your steaming Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a gorgeous splash of green but also a fresh herbal flavor that lifts the dish to another level.

How to Serve Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic topping that adds color and brightness, but you can also try a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for extra richness. Toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of smoked paprika add lovely texture and a hint of smoky flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or soft pita for dipping. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s heartiness perfectly, rounding out the meal with crisp freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in a bread bowl for a fun, rustic touch that doubles as edible servingware. For a light lunch, offer small cups as a flavorful starter at dinner parties. You can also drizzle a swirl of coconut cream on top for a creamy twist that visually dazzles and tastes divine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen while resting, making leftovers even better. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute any thickened lentils.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Microwave works too, but stirring halfway helps heat it evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils in this Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe?

Red lentils are preferred for their quick cooking time and creamy texture, but you can experiment with yellow or split green lentils. Keep in mind they may require longer cooking and slightly different liquid amounts.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses vegetable broth and no gluten-containing ingredients, making it perfect for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Absolutely. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili when adding the spices for an extra kick that will warm you right up.

What if I don’t have all the spices?

The cumin, turmeric, and coriander are the charm of this recipe, but if you’re missing one, substitute with a pinch of garam masala or curry powder for a different, but still delicious, flavor profile.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be thick and creamy but still ladle-able. Add broth or water if it becomes too dense after cooling or reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Spiced Red Lentil Soup Recipe is a true gem that marries ease and flavor so beautifully. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a bowl of warm, spiced comfort. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your favorite soups to make and share. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and get ready to fall in love with every spoonful.

Print