This Easy Carrot and Lentil Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with fresh carrots and hearty lentils, it’s both healthy and filling. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare!
I love how colorful this soup is, brightening up any meal. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a healthy boost. Grab a spoon and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and enhances flavor. If you’re not a fan, avocado oil or coconut oil can work too.
Onion: Yellow onions are great for sweetness. For a milder taste, try green onions or shallots instead.
Carrots: Fresh, bright orange carrots provide sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, use frozen carrots or sweet potatoes for a twist!
Red Lentils: These cook quickly and blend easily. If you have green or brown lentils, you can use them, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times as they take longer to soften.
Spices: Ground cumin, turmeric, and coriander create warmth and depth. Feel free to replace them with curry powder for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get the Right Texture When Blending the Soup?
The texture of your soup is key to a good experience. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After cooking, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splatters.
- If using a traditional blender, fill it halfway and blend in batches. This avoids overflow.
- For a thicker texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest chunky.
Remember, you can always add a bit of water or broth if it’s too thick after blending. This soup is all about your preference!
Easy Carrot and Lentil Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a healthy and comforting meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, cumin, turmeric, and coriander. Cook this mixture for one more minute, allowing those yummy scents to fill your kitchen!
2. Add the Main Ingredients:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and rinsed lentils. Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Turn up the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil. It’s going to look colorful and inviting!
3. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Check occasionally, and you’ll know it’s ready when the lentils and carrots are tender.
4. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, you can spoon portions into a regular blender. Just be cautious of hot liquid and blend until you achieve your desired consistency!
5. Season and Serve:
After blending, season the soup with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like. This adds a lovely brightness! Finally, serve your soup hot and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a vibrant touch.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy carrot and lentil soup! It’s perfect for a cozy meal any time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Lentils Instead of Red Lentils?
Yes, you can! However, regular green or brown lentils will take longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time to about 40-45 minutes until they’re tender. You won’t get the same creamy texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan. Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain animal products.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with the Carrot and Lentil Soup?
This soup is great on its own, but you could serve it with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or a grain like quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy!
