This Spicy Lentil Soup is a perfect comfort meal, offering a healthy and delicious combination of lentils, vegetables, and a blend of spices. The result is a hearty and filling soup that’s rich in flavor and nutrients. It’s also quick to make, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
Spicy Lentil Soup Recipe Contents
Time Overview
| Time Label | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Servings & Estimated Cost
| Servings | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 4 People | $10 – $12 |
Ingredients for Spicy Lentil Soup
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful soup. I’ve linked the ingredients I recommend for easy shopping.
| Amount | Unit | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | cup | Red Lentils | Rinsed and drained |
| 1 | tbsp | Olive Oil | Extra virgin preferred |
| 1 | tsp | Ground Cumin | Adds earthy, warm flavor |
| 1 | tsp | Paprika | Use smoked paprika for more depth |
| 1 | tsp | Chili Flakes | Adjust to your spice preference |
| 4 | cups | Vegetable Broth | Use low-sodium for a healthier option |
| 1 | Carrot | Peeled and diced | |
| 1 | Onion | Chopped | |
| 2 | Garlic Cloves | Minced | |
| 1 | tbsp | Tomato Paste | Adds richness to the broth |
| 1 | tsp | Salt | Adjust to taste |
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Equipment Needed for Spicy Lentil Soup
Having the right tools on hand makes cooking so much easier! Here’s what you’ll need for this soup recipe:
| Amount | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Large Pot | Heavy-bottomed for even cooking |
| 1 | Wooden Spoon | For stirring the soup |
| 1 | Ladle | To serve the soup |
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Instructions for Spicy Lentil Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Associated Ingredients: Olive oil, Onion, Carrot, Garlic
Name: Sautéing
Step 2: Add the Spices and Tomato Paste
Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, chili flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Associated Ingredients: Ground Cumin, Paprika, Chili flakes, Tomato paste
Name: Adding Spices
Step 3: Simmer the Lentils
Add the lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Associated Ingredients: Lentils, Vegetable broth
Name: Simmering Lentils
Step 4: Blend and Serve
Once the lentils are cooked, you can either blend the soup for a smoother texture or leave it chunky, depending on your preference. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Associated Ingredients: Lentils, Vegetable broth
Name: Blending
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Fiber | 8g |
Recipe Notes
- Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- Texture: For a creamier soup, blend half of the mixture using an immersion blender.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use green lentils instead of red lentils?
Yes, but green lentils take longer to cook and will give the soup a firmer texture. - Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add celery, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. - How can I reduce the sodium content?
Use low-sodium vegetable broth and adjust the salt to taste.
Spicy Lentil Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large pot Heavy-bottomed for even cooking
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring the soup
- 1 Ladle To serve the soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup Red Lentils Rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil Extra virgin preferred
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin Adds earthy, warm flavor
- 1 tsp Paprika Use smoked paprika for more depth
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes Adjust to your spice preference
- 4 cups Vegetable Broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option
- 1 Carrot Peeled and diced
- 1 Onion Chopped
- 2 Garlic Cloves Minced
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste Adds richness to the broth
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, chili flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Add the lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, you can either blend the soup for a smoother texture or leave it chunky, depending on your preference. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- Texture: For a creamier soup, blend half of the mixture using an immersion blender.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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