Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

A Warm Bowl of Comfort Awaits

Ever had a soup that hugs you from the inside? Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup is just that! This vibrant blend of carrots and lentils simmered with warm spices greets you with a comforting aroma that pulls you right in. Plus, it’s fast, simple, and perfect for those chilly days when cozy vibes are a must. Trust me, this recipe will turn any ordinary day into something a little more special!

Why Make This Recipe?

This soup is a dream come true for busy bees and homebodies alike. Here are a couple of reasons you’ll adore it:

• Easy Cleanup: One pot is all you need! Who has time for a full kitchen disaster?
• Budget-Friendly: Packed with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank — perfect for those tight weeks.

And let’s not forget, this dish is so family-friendly that even the pickiest eaters might surprise you and go back for seconds. How’s that for a win? 😄

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 2 cups carrots, diced
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, and coriander. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread.

How to Make Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup (Overview)

Making this soup is as easy as pie—actually, easier! Here’s how it rolls out:

• Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil to create a tasty base.
• Toss in the carrots; let them mingle and soften.
• Next, add the lentils and broth along with your spices. Bring it all to a boil, then let it simmer away while your kitchen fills with an irresistible fragrance.
• Finish up with seasoning and a sprinkle of parsley.

Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic! Trust me, that little step makes a world of difference. 😉

How to Serve Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

Serving this soup is where the magic really happens. Picture it: a bowl of rich orange soup, speckled with plush green parsley, contrasting beautifully with crusty bread on the side.

• Pair it with a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
• Add a squeeze of lemon to wake up those flavors.
• Don’t forget to drizzle a bit of olive oil for that touch of elegance!

Every bowl offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, from the hearty lentils to the smooth carrots.

How to Store Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

If you happen to have leftovers (unlikely, but hey, it happens!), you can store your soup in the fridge for about 4-5 days. Just pop it in an airtight container, and you’re good to go!

Thinking ahead? This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a cozy meal waiting for you.

Tips to Make Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

Here are a few insider tricks to make your soup game strong:

• Use different lentils! Red lentils cook faster and break down, creating a creamier texture, while green lentils hold their shape. Mix and match based on your mood.
• Add a kick with some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy!
• If you’re short on time, pre-chop your veggies earlier in the week.

Variation

Looking to switch things up? Here are some easy variations:

• Make it vegan! This recipe is already plant-based; just double-check your broth.
• Toss in some spinach or kale for a great nutrition boost.
• Add a touch of coconut milk for a tropical twist – now we’re talking!

FAQs

Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to rinse and soak them beforehand to reduce cooking time.

How do I make this soup ahead of time?
You can make it a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge, then reheat when you’re ready to dig in.

Can I freeze Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Store it in airtight containers; just don’t forget to label ’em!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Spiced Carrot and Lentil Soup

A comforting soup made with carrots and lentils, spiced with cumin and coriander, perfect for chilly days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Soup Base

• 2 cups carrots, diced Use fresh, vibrant carrots for best flavor.
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed Any variety of lentils can be used.
• 1 onion, chopped A medium onion works well.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Toasting the garlic enhances the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• 4 cups vegetable broth Ensure it’s plant-based if making vegan.
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish Enhances presentation and flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for a few more minutes.

Cooking

1. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, and coriander. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Serving

1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread.

Notes

This soup can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Consider adding spinach or kale for extra nutrients or coconut milk for a tropical twist.