Description
This Spicy Lentil Soup is a hearty, vegan one-pot meal packed with red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for cozy dinners or make-ahead lunches, this comforting recipe is rich in plant-based protein and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this spicy lentil soup recipe is gluten-free, customizable, and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 carrots, chopped
1 cup red lentils
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until onions are translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
2. Stir in carrots, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let spices bloom for about 2 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red lentils, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally.
5. Add fresh lemon juice and chopped cilantro (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot. Garnish with extra lemon juice, a swirl of yogurt, or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Notes
This soup gets thicker as it cools, so add extra broth when reheating.
You can substitute red lentils with green or brown, but extend the cook time.
For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg