Spiced Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 stalk celery, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tbsp)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lentils:

  • Rinse 1 cup of dried lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. SautĂ© for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly golden.

3. Add the Garlic and Spices:

  • Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (if using).
  • Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

4. Combine the Base Ingredients:

  • Add the rinsed lentils, 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice).
  • Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer the Soup:

  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Season and Add Lemon Juice:

  • Taste the soup and add 1 tsp of sea salt and 1/2 tsp of freshly cracked black pepper, or adjust to taste.
  • Stir in the juice of 1/2 lemon for a bright, fresh flavor.

7. Blend (Optional):

  • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some lentils and vegetables whole for texture.

8. Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Serving Tip:
Serve this hearty soup with warm crusty bread or flatbread for a satisfying meal.

Shop the Ingredients:

  • Olive Oil (Salty Cupboard)
  • Sea Salt Flakes (Salty Cupboard)
  • Ground Cumin (Salty Cupboard)