Effortless Cooking Delight: The Perfect Red Lentil Soup Recipe
Ready to whip up a delectable and comforting bowl of red lentil soup? Look no further! This red lentil soup recipe is not only delicious and nutritious but also incredibly easy to make. Packed with flavourful ingredients and hearty red lentils, this soup is a perfect choice for a cozy night in or a quick, satisfying meal. Let’s delve into the simple steps and enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade red lentil soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under running water and set them aside. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery as per the instructions. Mince the garlic cloves and gather all the spices needed for the soup.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Allow the spices to toast for a few seconds to release their flavours, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed red lentils to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and stir well. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
6. Season and Serve: Season the red lentil soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Cooking Tips:
– Feel free to customize the soup by adding extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes.
– For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while leaving some lentils whole.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
There you have it – a straightforward and flavourful red lentil soup that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savour the delightful taste of homemade red lentil soup.