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:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- 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.
- Combine Lentils and Tomatoes:
- Add rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Stir to combine with the aromatic mixture.
- 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.
- 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.
- Season and Adjust:
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if needed, based on your preference.
- 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.
