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Curry Red Lentil Soup

Curry Red Lentil Soup

Curry Red Lentil Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious dish that combines red lentils with warm curry spices and creamy coconut milk. Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes using simple pantry ingredients, this soup offers a hearty, wholesome meal perfect for any season—whether enjoyed hot or chilled. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant aromas, it’s an ideal budget-friendly recipe that satisfies and nourishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté gently until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, building the savory flavor base for the soup.
  2. Toast the spices: Sprinkle in the curry powder and stir for about one minute along with the aromatics to toast the spices, enhancing their depth and richness.
  3. Add lentils and liquids: Pour in the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Simmer gently: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Finish with brightness: Just before serving, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped cilantro to add a lively burst of freshness that balances the warm spices perfectly.

Notes

  • Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove impurities and prevent a gritty texture.
  • Keep heat low during simmering to cook lentils evenly without breaking them down too much.
  • Use fresh curry powder for the best flavor impact as spices lose potency over time.
  • Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the soup and balances rich flavors.
  • Adjust soup consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water for thinner soup or less for a thicker stew-like texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Curry, Red Lentils, Soup, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Comfort Food, Healthy, Easy, Quick Dinner