Creamy Indian-Style Spiced Red Lentil Soup
This Creamy Indian-Style Spiced Red Lentil Soup offers a warm and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you're craving something rich in flavor and nutrition. Made with tender red lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, this soup is not only hearty but also packed with protein and fiber. The infusion of coconut milk adds a luscious creaminess that perfectly balances the spices, making it an ideal companion for pan-fried flatbread. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1 (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (finely chopped)
carrot
1 (finely chopped)
butter
3 tablespoons
curry powder
1 teaspoon
fresh ginger
1 tablespoon (grated)
chicken broth
5 cups
coconut milk
1 cup
tomato paste
2 tablespoons
red lentils
3/4 cup
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped carrot, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2
Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.
3
Add the grated ginger, chicken broth, coconut milk, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4
Once boiling, add the red lentils and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender, stirring occasionally.
5
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup in a regular blender.
7
Serve hot, accompanied by pan-fried flatbread for dipping and enjoying.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Indian-Style Spiced Red Lentil Soup?
It is a warm, comforting soup made with red lentils, fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and coconut milk for a rich, velvety texture.
What are the primary ingredients in this soup?
The main ingredients include red lentils, onion, garlic, carrot, curry powder, fresh ginger, chicken broth, coconut milk, and tomato paste.
Is this lentil soup vegetarian?
As written with chicken broth it is not, but you can easily make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth and using oil instead of butter.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute and will make the recipe suitable for vegetarians.
What type of lentils are best for this recipe?
Red lentils are specifically used because they break down easily during cooking, creating a naturally thick and creamy consistency.
Can I substitute red lentils with green or brown lentils?
You can, but the texture and cooking time will change. Green and brown lentils hold their shape better and take longer to cook than red lentils.
Do I need to soak the red lentils before cooking?
No, red lentils do not require soaking; they cook relatively quickly in about 20 minutes.
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
Preparation and cooking take approximately 30 to 40 minutes in total.
How spicy is this Indian-style soup?
The soup has a mild to medium warmth from the curry powder and ginger, but it is generally considered family-friendly and comforting.
How can I make the soup spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add red chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped fresh chili during the sautéing process.
What makes the soup so creamy?
The combination of red lentils breaking down and the addition of one cup of coconut milk provides a luscious, creamy texture.
Can I use a substitute for coconut milk?
Yes, you can use heavy cream or a cashew-based cream as an alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
Tomato paste adds a layer of umami, a hint of acidity, and a richer color to the broth.
Should I use fresh or ground ginger?
Freshly grated ginger is recommended for the best aromatic flavor, though ground ginger can be used in a pinch (use about 1/4 teaspoon per tablespoon of fresh).
Do I need an immersion blender for this recipe?
An immersion blender is optional; it is used if you prefer a perfectly smooth, pureed texture rather than a chunky, rustic soup.
What should I serve with this soup?
It is traditionally served with pan-fried flatbread, naan, or crusty bread for dipping.
Is this red lentil soup gluten-free?
The soup itself is gluten-free as long as you use a certified gluten-free broth and serve it without traditional wheat-based flatbread.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely. Chopped spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers make great additions for extra nutrition.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 hearty servings.
How do I store leftover lentil soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or broth as the lentils continue to absorb liquid while sitting.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, coconut oil or olive oil can be used instead of butter to make the recipe dairy-free.
Is this soup high in protein?
Yes, red lentils are an excellent plant-based source of protein, making this soup very satisfying.
Does this soup provide fiber?
Yes, lentils are very high in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Can I use an Instant Pot for this recipe?
Yes, use the sauté function for the vegetables, then pressure cook on high for about 5-8 minutes with a natural release.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor is savory and aromatic, with notes of warm curry, earthy lentils, and a sweet, creamy finish from the coconut milk.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is an ideal meal prep dish as the flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two in the refrigerator.
How can I garnish this soup?
Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of yogurt for extra brightness.