Curry lentil soup

Title: Curried Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Spices:
   • Add minced garlic, curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine Lentils and Tomatoes:
   • Add rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Stir to combine with the aromatic mixture.
4. Pour in Broth:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Add Coconut Milk:
   • Stir in the coconut milk and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Season and Adjust:
   • Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if needed, based on your preference.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the curried lentil soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.

Time and Intensity:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
• Intensity: Easy

Note: This Curried Lentil Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of lentils with the aromatic spices of curry. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Serve this comforting soup with a squeeze of lemon for a delightful and satisfying meal.