Indian-Style Red Lentil Soup

Name: Indian-Style Red Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust to taste); 1 cup red lentils (rinsed and drained); 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium); 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (with liquid); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

40 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Warm and comforting Indian-style red lentil soup, spiced with aromatic herbs and packed with flavour.

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Indian-style red lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that's perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This soup combines the earthy flavour of red lentils with a medley of aromatic spices, offering a delightful taste of Indian cuisine. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced cooks. The red lentils cook quickly, resulting in a creamy, satisfying soup that's both vegan and gluten-free, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Instructions

Sauté aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the onion does not brown, to keep the soup's flavour mild.

Add garlic and ginger

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Spice it up

Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. Cook for another minute, stirring to coat the onion mixture with spices.

Pro tip: Toast the spices gently to release their oils.

Combine lentils and broth

Add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Pro tip: Skim any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer soup.

Add tomatoes

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their liquid. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Season and serve

Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

Sauté the spices gently to enhance their flavour.
Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more vibrant taste.
Adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook the lentils?

Red lentils typically take about 20 minutes to cook until tender.

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Adjust the simmering time for different lentils.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Increase the amount of chilli powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Indian-style red lentil soup with warm naan bread or steamed basmati rice to complete the meal. It's also a great make-ahead option as the flavours deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier. Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened too much.