Curried Lentil Soup with Carrots Recipe
Overview
This Curried Lentil Soup with Carrots is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring red lentils, aromatic spices, and a touch of heat from red chili peppers. Perfect for those chilly days when you need something hearty and warming, this soup delivers both comfort and nutritional value.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 35 minutes
- Serves: 4-6
- Calories per Serving: 669.6 kcal
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting:
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Red lentils | 2 cups |
| Onions | 1 large, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Turmeric | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Red chili pepper | 1-2, chopped |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Carrots | 2 large, diced |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable broth | 6 cups |
| Unsweetened coconut milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Fresh cilantro | For garnish |
Instructions
-
Prepare Lentils:
- Sort through the red lentils to remove any debris and rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear.
-
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they are tender and translucent.
-
Add Spices:
- Stir in minced garlic, turmeric, cumin seeds, salt, black pepper, and chopped red chili peppers. Cook for a minute or two until the spices become fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Transfer the sautéed onion-spice mixture into a crockpot (slow cooker). Add the diced tomatoes (including their juice), diced carrots, rinsed lentils, lemon juice, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
-
Cook in Crockpot:
- Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the lentils and vegetables are tender and fully cooked.
-
Add Coconut Milk:
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the unsweetened coconut milk. This adds a creamy texture and enriches the flavors of the soup.
-
Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and additional flavor.
Tips for Success
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili peppers according to your preference for heat.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable broth or cook uncovered for the last part of the cooking time to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can be frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 669.6 kcal
- Fat: 28.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 20.4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 1058.9 mg
- Carbohydrates: 84.4 g
- Fiber: 15.4 g
- Sugar: 11.9 g
- Protein: 29.1 g
Flavor Profile
This soup boasts a complex flavor profile with the earthy richness of lentils, the warmth of spices like turmeric and cumin, and a subtle heat from red chili peppers. The addition of coconut milk brings a creamy texture that balances out the spices, while fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, herbaceous note to the finished dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Curried Lentil Soup with Carrots alongside crusty bread or warm naan for a satisfying meal.
- It pairs well with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to complement the bold flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
With its hearty ingredients and aromatic spices, this Curried Lentil Soup with Carrots is a perfect choice for a comforting and nutritious meal. Whether you’re vegan, looking for an inexpensive meal option, or simply craving something spicy and satisfying, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the warmth and flavors that will keep you coming back for more throughout the year! 🍲
