Description
This Creamy Red Lentil Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with Middle Eastern-inspired spices and creamy coconut milk, this vegan and gluten-free soup is both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and carrot, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add cumin, turmeric, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are soft.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
- Stir in lemon juice and coconut milk or cream if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Notes
- This soup thickens as it sits—add a splash of water or broth to loosen when reheating.
- It freezes well and is perfect for meal prep.
- For added protein, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or serve with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern–Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
