Hearty Spiced Lentil & Tomato Soup for Cozy Evenings
Hearty Spiced Lentil & Tomato Soup is a warm, vegan-friendly dish that blends red lentils, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic spices for a comforting bowl. This recipe takes just under 30 minutes to prepare and offers a low‑calorie, protein‑rich meal perfect for cozy evenings.
Equipment
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Can opener
Ingredients
For the Broth
- 4 cups (960 ml) low‑sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
For the Lentils
- 1 cup (200 g) red lentils, rinsed
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For the Tomatoes
- 1 can (28 oz / 794 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon (2 g) ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon (1 g) cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional Add‑On
- ½ cup (120 ml) coconut milk for a richer mouthfeel
Instructions
1. Sauté the Base
- Heat olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Aromatics
- Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne. Let the spices bloom for 1 minute, letting the oils release their flavors.
3. Introduce the Lentils
- Pour in the rinsed lentils and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
4. Combine Liquids
- Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer Until Tender
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes. Check for tenderness; the lentils should be tender but not mushy.
- Tip: Use a wooden spoon to stir gently, ensuring the lentils don’t stick to the bottom.
6. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
- If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to pulse until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Final Touches
- Stir in coconut milk if using, season with salt and pepper, and let it heat through for a minute.
- Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning; a pinch more cayenne can give the soup an extra kick.
8. Serve
- Pour the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy hot.
Notes
Pro Tips: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to deepen the flavor. Use red lentils for a quicker cook and a slightly sweeter taste. If you’re short on time, use a 30‑minute instant pot method by cooking on high pressure for 10 minutes. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for brightness. Store in a sealed container; the flavors mature wonderfully overnight.