Name: Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil or coconut oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 cup (200g) red lentils, rinsed; 6 cups (1.4L) vegetable broth; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish

Why Make This Recipe

This Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup is a simple, healthy dish perfect for any occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices makes it a comforting meal that can help you feel rejuvenated. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup not only tasty but beneficial for your health.

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How to Make Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil or coconut oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup (200g) red lentils, rinsed
6 cups (1.4L) vegetable broth
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 7-10 minutes.
Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in turmeric, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 30 seconds while stirring constantly.
Add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and crushed tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are soft and have broken down, creating a thick soup. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
If you want a smoother texture, blend a portion using an immersion blender or carefully transfer to a regular blender.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

How to Serve Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of freshness. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad. This soup is also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

How to Store Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Easy Comforting Cleansing Red Lentil Turmeric Soup

Always rinse the lentils before using them to remove any dirt or impurities.
Adjust the spices based on your taste preferences. You can add more cayenne for extra heat or skip it altogether.
For a creamier soup, blend it more thoroughly or add a splash of coconut milk before serving.

Variation

You can customize this soup by adding other vegetables such as spinach or kale, or by switching the lentils for chickpeas. Adding coconut milk can also give it a creamier texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use yellow lentils instead of red lentils?
Yes, you can use yellow lentils. Just note that they may cook a little differently.

2. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.