Easy Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Name: Red Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp coriander powder; Olive oil for sautéing

Published: March 15, 2025

by Liora

Why You’ll Love This red lentil soup

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for red lentil soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Red Lentils: These cook quickly and break down easily, giving the soup a creamy texture without needing dairy.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth of flavor; choose fresh onions for the best taste.
Carrots: Diced carrots provide sweetness and color; opt for firm ones without blemishes.
Celery Stalks: Celery enhances the savory flavor profile; select crisp stalks for maximum freshness.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic will add aromatic richness; use about three cloves minced for great flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity; make sure they are unsalted or low-sodium.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.
Cumin Powder: This spice lends warmth; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Coriander Powder: Adds a hint of citrusy flavor; adjust according to your liking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make red lentil soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil followed by diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened—about five minutes—and then stir in minced garlic.

Step 2: Add Spices

Once the vegetables are tender, sprinkle in cumin powder and coriander powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes

Next, add rinsed red lentils along with canned diced tomatoes (including their juice) to the pot. Stir everything together so that the ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in four cups of vegetable broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it simmer for about twenty minutes or until the lentils have softened completely.

Step 6: Blend if Desired

For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches of the soup into a blender until smooth.

Transfer to bowls and enjoy garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Check Lentils Carefully: Inspect lentils before cooking for any debris or small stones that may have been packaged with them.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added nutrition.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they will keep well for up to three days.

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How to Serve red lentil soup

This red lentil soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Tips and tricks

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Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the red lentil soup components in advance. Chop vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Cook the soup and let it cool completely before storing it in a container for later use.
Storing: Leftover red lentil soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh, or freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months.
Reheating: To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring even heating by stirring halfway through.

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Suggestions for red lentil soup

Avoid Overcooking the Lentils

One common mistake when making red lentil soup is overcooking the lentils. Red lentils cook quickly and can turn mushy if left on the heat for too long. This can result in a texture that is less than appealing. To achieve the perfect consistency, keep an eye on them during cooking. Once they become tender and start to break apart, it’s time to remove them from heat. Remember, you can always add more liquid later if needed, but you can’t undo overcooked lentils.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Another critical tip is to use fresh ingredients when preparing your red lentil soup. Stale spices or wilted vegetables can significantly impact the flavor profile of your dish. Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can elevate your soup’s taste and aroma. Always check the quality of your ingredients before cooking. Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients, making your soup healthier.

Don’t Skip Seasoning

Proper seasoning is vital for enhancing the flavors in your red lentil soup. Many people make the mistake of under-seasoning their dishes, leading to bland results. Start with basic seasonings like salt and pepper, and then experiment with additional spices such as cumin or coriander. Taste your soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning accordingly to create a balanced flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Pay Attention to Consistency

The consistency of your red lentil soup should be smooth yet hearty. Many recipes fail because they don’t strike this balance properly. If you prefer a thicker texture, blend some of the soup once it’s cooked but leave some whole lentils for that rustic feel. Conversely, if you like a thinner consistency, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired outcome. Always remember that adjusting the liquid at the end is easier than trying to fix a soup that is too thick.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of red lentil soup?

Red lentil soup boasts numerous health benefits that make it an excellent addition to any diet. Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making them a filling option for vegetarians and vegans alike. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, folate, and magnesium. Consuming red lentils may help regulate blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index while promoting heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Additionally, their high fiber content aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making them an ideal choice for weight management.

Can I freeze red lentil soup?

Yes, you can successfully freeze your red lentil soup! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve leftovers or prepare meals in advance without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label them with dates for easy identification later on. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

What variations can I make to my red lentil soup?

There are countless variations you can try when preparing red lentil soup! You might want to add different vegetables such as carrots, spinach, or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Experimenting with spices like turmeric or smoked paprika can enhance depth in taste as well. For a creamier texture, consider adding coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt just before serving. You could also incorporate proteins like diced chicken or sausage if you’re looking for more substance in your meal.

How long does it take to cook red lentil soup?

Cooking red lentil soup is relatively quick compared to other soups due to the fast-cooking nature of red lentils. Typically, once you’ve sautéed any onions or garlic and added other ingredients along with broth, it takes about 20-30 minutes for everything to come together nicely on medium heat. You’ll know it’s done when the lentils are tender but not mushy; they should maintain some structure while still contributing creaminess to the broth.

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Conclusion for red lentil soup

In summary, preparing delicious red lentil soup involves avoiding common pitfalls like overcooking lentils and using stale ingredients while ensuring proper seasoning enhances its flavor profile. Focusing on achieving a desirable consistency will elevate your dish even further. Remember that fresh ingredients contribute significantly to overall taste and nutrition. By following these tips and experimenting with various ingredients and spices, you’ll create a comforting bowl of red lentil soup that’s both satisfying and healthy—perfect for any meal occasion! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that warms hearts and nourishes bodies alike!

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