Curry Lentil Soup

Curry lentil soup is a delightful dish that brings together the warm flavors of spices, tender lentils, and hearty vegetables. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only comforting but also nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option that lasts for days, this curry lentil soup fits the bill. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it a standout choice for those chilly fall and winter evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This one-pot recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from lentils and vitamins from the veggies, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It keeps well in the refrigerator for several days and freezes beautifully for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious curry lentil soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Grater
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick, safe, and precise chopping of vegetables.
• Grater: Useful for finely grating garlic and ginger, enhancing the flavor infusion in your soup.

Ingredients

For this delicious curry lentil soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (cut into discs)
• 3 cloves garlic (grated)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 5 cups vegetable broth (or more if needed)
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 1 pound potatoes (peeled and cut into bite-size chunks)
• 5 ounces kale (or spinach, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 wedges lime

How to Make Curry Lentil Soup

Step 1: Flavor Base

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they soften. Then add grated garlic and ginger along with curry powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for an additional minute while stirring frequently to combine all flavors well.

Step 2: Let Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth along with crushed tomatoes. Add dried lentils, diced potatoes, and chopped kale. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Step 3: Serving Suggestions

Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt as needed based on your preference. For serving, consider pairing it with brown rice, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, pickled red onions, or chopped scallions for added flavor and texture.

Enjoy your warm bowl of curry lentil soup!

How to Serve Curry Lentil Soup

Curry lentil soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Brown Rice

• Adding brown rice provides a hearty base, making the soup more filling and adding a nutty flavor.

Squeeze of Lime Juice

• A fresh squeeze of lime juice brightens up the curry lentil soup, balancing the spices and enhancing the overall taste.

Dollop of Greek Yogurt

• Top your soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess and a tangy contrast that complements the flavors perfectly.

Pickled Red Onions

• The tangy crunch of pickled red onions adds an exciting texture and flavor contrast to the warm soup.

Chopped Scallions

• Sprinkle chopped scallions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor that elevates the dish.

How to Perfect Curry Lentil Soup

Getting the perfect curry lentil soup takes a little practice but is well worth it. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices have more flavor. Check your spice rack before cooking and replace any old spices for better taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Taste and Season: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer-lasting enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Curry Lentil Soup

Pairing side dishes with curry lentil soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds freshness to balance the hearty soup.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast that complements the smooth texture of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance nutrition and add depth of flavor with their caramelized sweetness.
4. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips serve as an excellent dipping option, perfect for scooping up the curry lentil soup.
5. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing cucumber raita offers cooling creaminess that pairs well with spiced lentils.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with herbs and lemon dressing makes a satisfying side dish full of textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Curry Lentil Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold spices: Using too little or too much spice can alter the flavor. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your taste as you go.
• Ignoring lentil types: Not all lentils cook the same way. Use green or brown lentils for this recipe, as other varieties may not yield the desired texture.
• Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can make them mushy. Add more delicate greens like kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for better texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can lead to bland soup. Always taste before serving and add more salt or spices as needed.
• Not using enough broth: If your soup is too thick, it may need more liquid. Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetable broth until you reach your preferred consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Curry Lentil Soup

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Curry Lentil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat for about 5-10 minutes or until steaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Curry Lentil Soup.

How do I make Curry Lentil Soup thicker?

You can add more lentils or blend part of the soup after cooking to achieve a thicker texture.

Can I use different vegetables in my Curry Lentil Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes based on your preferences.

What can I serve with Curry Lentil Soup?

Consider serving it with brown rice, crusty bread, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

How long does Curry Lentil Soup last in the fridge?

Curry lentil soup lasts up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make Curry Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Yes! It makes an excellent meal prep option as flavors deepen over time and it stores well.

Final Thoughts

Curry lentil soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any night of the week. Experiment with various spices and vegetables to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its warmth on chilly days!