Spicy Red Lentil Soup: Our Recipe

Lentil soup is a comforting classic, especially in the colder months. While the traditional version made with yellow lentils is always a favorite, we’re switching things up with this vibrant Spicy Red Lentil Soup.

It’s packed with delicious spices and aromatics that will warm you from the inside out.

Ready to make a hearty, plant-based soup that’s both nourishing and satisfying? We’ve got you covered with this easy-to-follow recipe, tips for flavor variations, and serving suggestions to make it a standout dish.

Ingredients for Spicy Red Lentil Soup

• 1 cup red lentils: Rinse thoroughly and soak to speed up cooking.
• 1 onion: Finely chopped.
• 2 carrots: Peeled and diced.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 1-inch piece of ginger: Peeled and minced.
• 1 red chili: Thinly sliced (de-seed if you want less heat).
• 1 tsp turmeric: For a warm, mellow flavor and a vibrant color.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds depth and a slight earthiness to the soup.
• 4 cups vegetable stock: The base for a flavorful broth.
• 1 ¾ cups coconut milk: For a creamy texture that balances the spices.
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional): Provides a hint of cheesiness and adds B12.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 2 tsp olive oil: For sautéing.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Optional, for a pop of color.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Lentils

Place the red lentils in a bowl and rinse under cold water, changing the water 3–4 times until it runs clear. Soak the lentils for about 30 minutes to 2 hours, which helps them cook more evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

Finely chop the onion, carrots, garlic, and ginger. Thinly slice the red chili, removing seeds if you prefer a milder soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onions turn translucent. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Veggies and Lentils

Add the sliced chili and diced carrots to the pot. Stir everything together, and then add the drained lentils. Mix well to prevent the lentils from clumping.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in the turmeric, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking—if you’re a fan of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!

Step 6: Make the Broth

Pour in the vegetable stock, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast (if using). Stir gently and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20–25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Step 7: Blend the Soup

Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly before blending. Use an immersion blender or a traditional blender to puree the soup until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of coconut milk and freshly chopped parsley. Serve with some fresh, crusty bread for a complete, cozy meal.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Substitutions:
  • If you don’t have coconut milk, use any plant-based milk for a lighter version.
  • You can skip the nutritional yeast if you don’t have it; the soup will still be delicious and nutritious.
• Variations:
  • Add other vegetables, like diced sweet potato or bell pepper, for more texture and flavor.
  • For an extra protein boost, stir in some cooked chickpeas before serving.

Flavor Enhancements

• Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a slightly smoky flavor.
• Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrients.
• For a hint of sweetness, add a chopped apple or a splash of maple syrup to balance the spice.

What to Serve with Spicy Red Lentil Soup

• Garlic Bread: A classic and simple side that pairs wonderfully with this soup.
• Tomato Panzanella: A fresh and vibrant salad with toasted bread chunks, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Vegan Bombay Grilled Sandwich: Add some spice to your meal with a grilled sandwich made with green chutney, veggies, and vegan cheese.

Our Top Tips for the Best Spicy Red Lentil Soup

1. Soak the Lentils: Soaking the red lentils before cooking helps them become tender and speeds up the cooking process.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red chili or removing the seeds for a milder soup.
3. Taste Before Serving: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed to bring out the best flavors.

Storage Suggestions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the soup in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.

When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable stock to adjust the consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Spicy Red Lentil Soup to warm you up during the colder months. This recipe is quick, hearty, and perfect for batch cooking or feeding a crowd.

Plus, with its vegan-friendly ingredients, it’s a nutritious option that’s easy to adapt to suit your taste. Serve with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying!

Frequently Asked Questions