Oh man, there’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps around you like a soft blanket, isn’t there? When the weather turns chilly and the leaves start to fall, my go-to comfort food is this delightful red lentil soup curry. It’s hearty, it’s nourishing, and the flavors are just so rich and vibrant! With the warm spices dancing around in the pot, it’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds.
This red lentil soup curry isn’t just any soup; it’s a beautiful blend of earthy lentils, creamy coconut milk, and fresh spinach that all come together to create a symphony of flavors. The curry powder and turmeric give it that golden hue and a kick of warmth, making it perfect for those crisp evenings. I remember making this on a rainy Sunday afternoon, the aroma filling my kitchen and bringing my family together. Each spoonful feels like home, and I just can’t get enough of it! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip up a batch every time the temperature drops.
Ingredients List
To make this delicious red lentil soup curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil, for sautéing
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen
Make sure to have your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience. The fresh onion, garlic, and ginger will really elevate the flavors, so don’t skip on those! Enjoy the process, and let those aromas take over your kitchen!
How to Prepare Red Lentil Soup Curry
Making this red lentil soup curry is a breeze, and I promise it’s worth every second you spend in the kitchen! Here’s your step-by-step guide to creating this warm, comforting dish.
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatic goodies for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. You’ll love how the kitchen starts to smell!
Step 2: Add Spices
Next, stir in the curry powder and turmeric. This is where the magic happens! Cook the spices for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step enhances their flavors and makes the soup even more delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to savor this moment!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and the creamy coconut milk to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Just imagining it bubbling away is enough to make your mouth water!
Step 4: Simmer
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes. You want those lentils to become tender and soak up all those wonderful flavors. Keep an eye on it and give it a gentle stir every now and then.
Step 5: Final Touch
After the lentils have cooked to perfection, stir in the spinach and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This adds a pop of color and nutrition to your soup. Once it’s all done, ladle it into your favorite bowl and get ready to enjoy a big hug in a mug!
Nutritional Information
This red lentil soup curry is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients! Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 850mg
These values are estimates, but they highlight how satisfying and nutritious this dish is! The combination of red lentils, spinach, and coconut milk creates a hearty meal that’s great for your body and soul. Enjoy every delightful spoonful knowing you’re nourishing yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: The blend of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a mouthwatering dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup is a wholesome choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.
- Versatile: Serve it as a comforting lunch, a cozy dinner, or even as a starter for your next dinner party—everyone will love it!
Tips for Success
To ensure your red lentil soup curry turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, rinse your lentils thoroughly to remove any dust or debris—this simple step can enhance the overall flavor. Keep an eye on the simmering time; overcooking can make lentils mushy, so check for tenderness around the 20-minute mark.
Also, don’t skip the sautéing step! It’s crucial for building those deep flavors. If you want a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce right before serving. Enjoy the process and trust your instincts—cooking should be fun!
Variations of Red Lentil Soup Curry
There’s so much room for creativity with this red lentil soup curry! If you’re looking to spice things up, try adding a pinch of garam masala or some cumin for a deeper flavor profile. You can also swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or Swiss chard—both add wonderful nutrition and color!
Feeling adventurous? Toss in some diced sweet potatoes or carrots for a touch of sweetness and extra texture. If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a swirl of sriracha when serving. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds guide you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your red lentil soup curry is super easy! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container since it may expand as it freezes.
When it’s time to enjoy your delicious leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. If it’s too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covering it with a microwave-safe lid—just remember to stir halfway through!
Red Lentil Soup Curry
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 cup red lentils rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger grated
For the Spices
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup spinach fresh or frozen
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in curry powder and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add red lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Stir in spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Notes
If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to explore more of our easy dinner favorites! Check out our collection of easy casserole recipes for more one-pan wonders, browse these easy chicken breast recipes that transform plain chicken into something amazing, or try our crockpot chicken soup recipes for ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it again later, and follow us on Pinterest for hundreds more delicious recipes and meal ideas!