Spiced Tomato Red Lentil Soup (Printable Version)
Warming soup with tender red lentils and tomatoes simmered in aromatic Mediterranean spices for deep, comforting flavor.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
02 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
03 - 2 medium carrots, diced
04 - 1 celery stalk, diced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
→ Lentils
07 - 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
→ Liquids
08 - 4 cups vegetable broth
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
11 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
14 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
16 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
17 - Lemon wedges
# How To Make:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
02 - Add garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Stir in cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with juice, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and vegetables are tender and soup thickens.
06 - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Partially blend with immersion blender for smoother texture if desired.
07 - Ladle into bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The way red lentils practically melt into the soup creates this incredibly creamy texture without any dairy at all
- This soup somehow tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or lazy lunches
02 -
- The soup will continue thickening as it sits, so if you prefer it thinner, add a splash more broth or water when reheating
- Red lentils don't require soaking, but giving them a thorough rinse until water runs clear removes any bitterness
03 -
- If you want extra richness, stir in a spoonful of coconut milk just before serving
- A splash of red wine vinegar can work wonders if the soup needs a little brightness