Silky Red Lentil Ginger Soup
This Silky Red Lentil Ginger Soup is a warm and comforting dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of red lentils, ginger, and cumin. Perfect for chilly days or when you're in need of a nourishing meal, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. Inspired by various recipes, I crafted this delightful dish to incorporate ingredients I often have on hand. While the recipe yields four servings, be warned—it's so delicious that it might just serve two! Enjoy this healthy bowl of goodness with a refreshing lemon squeeze and a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons (freshly grated)
ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
red onion
1 medium (peeled and chopped)
carrots
3 medium (peeled and chopped)
split red lentils
3/4 cup (none)
low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
5 cups (none)
fresh lemon
1/2 (optional, for squeezing)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Red Lentil Ginger Soup?
This is a warm and comforting dish that features red lentils, ginger, and cumin for a hearty and satisfying meal.
What are the primary flavors in this recipe?
The soup highlights the vibrant flavors of freshly grated ginger, ground cumin, and split red lentils.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is a vegetarian-friendly recipe when prepared with vegetable broth.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth and omit the optional yogurt dollop to keep the dish vegan.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
The recipe is designed for four servings, though it is hearty enough that it may serve two depending on hunger.
What ingredients are needed for the soup?
You will need olive oil, grated fresh ginger, ground cumin, red onion, carrots, split red lentils, broth, and fresh lemon.
Can I use different types of lentils?
Split red lentils are used specifically to achieve a silky texture as they break down easily during cooking.
What kind of broth is best for this soup?
The recipe recommends using low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth.
How much ginger is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger.
Is fresh ginger required?
While fresh ginger is recommended for the best flavor, you can use ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe specifies using one medium red onion, peeled and chopped.
Can I substitute the red onion?
Yes, yellow or white onions can be used as a substitute if red onion is not on hand.
How should the carrots be prepared?
You should use three medium carrots that have been peeled and chopped.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy, nourishing bowl of goodness that is high in protein and fiber.
What makes this soup high in protein?
The split red lentils provide a significant amount of plant-based protein.
Should I add yogurt to the soup?
Adding a dollop of yogurt is an optional way to add creaminess to the final dish.
When should I add the lemon?
A fresh squeeze of lemon should be added just before serving for a refreshing flavor boost.
Is this recipe easy to follow?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe with simple steps and common ingredients.
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
It is considered a quick meal option, making it ideal for busy days.
What spices are used in this dish?
The main spice featured is 1.5 teaspoons of ground cumin.
Is the Silky Red Lentil Ginger Soup spicy?
It is flavorful and aromatic rather than spicy, though the ginger adds a mild, pleasant heat.
Can I adjust the amount of cumin?
Yes, you can adjust the cumin levels to suit your personal taste preferences.
Why is the soup described as silky?
The split red lentils cook down into a very smooth, soft consistency that creates a silky mouthfeel.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, lentil-based soups generally freeze very well for future meals.
What are some serving suggestions for this soup?
It is delicious with a lemon squeeze, a dollop of yogurt, and perhaps some crusty bread on the side.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your broth labels to be sure.
Can I use water instead of broth?
You can use water, though broth is recommended to provide a deeper base of flavor.
Is this soup good for cold weather?
Yes, it is described as a comforting dish specifically perfect for chilly days.
How can I reduce the sodium in this recipe?
Using a low sodium vegetable or chicken broth helps keep the sodium levels in check.
Can I double the recipe for meal prepping?
Yes, the recipe can be easily scaled up to provide more servings for the week.