This easy vegan lemon lentil soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with healthy lentils, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of turmeric, it’s both tasty and bright.
It feels good to sip on something so nourishing! I love curling up with a big bowl of this soup on chilly nights. Plus, it’s super simple to make—just simmer and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils: Red or yellow lentils are the best for this soup because they cook quickly and become tender. If you have green or brown lentils, you can use them, but adjust the cooking time since they take longer to soften.
Olive Oil: Any oil like coconut or avocado oil can be swapped for olive oil if that’s what you have on hand. I usually stick to olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth is wonderful, but if you’re short on time, water is just fine! For a richer flavor, consider a low-sodium vegetable broth or add some herbs when using water.
Spices: Ground turmeric and cumin are essential. If you don’t have ground coriander, you can skip it. Fresh herbs like dill or even a pinch of curry powder can add a nice twist as well!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness to the soup. If lemons aren’t available, try lime juice or a little vinegar for similar acidity.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Soup Consistency?
Getting the right texture for your soup can make it so enjoyable. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Once the lentils and veggies are cooked, you can use an immersion blender. This is a handy tool that allows you to blend right in the pot—easy cleanup!
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender. Blend until smooth, then mix it back in.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water if it’s too thick. It should be hearty but not too chunky or liquidy.
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning after blending! Enjoy your cooking experience! 😊
Easy Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup with Turmeric Boost
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup red or yellow lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious vegan lemon lentil soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This step adds so much flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Now, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot. Cook them together for another 1-2 minutes, stirring often until they’re fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Spice It Up:
It’s time to add the spices! Stir in the turmeric, cumin, and optional ground coriander. Cook these for about 30 seconds to let their flavors bloom.
4. Combine the Veggies and Broth:
Next, add the rinsed lentils, diced carrot, and diced celery. Stir everything together well. Then, pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Let It Simmer:
Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the lentils and veggies are tender!
6. Blend for Texture (Optional):
If you’d like a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup right in the pot. You can blend to your desired consistency, leaving some lentils whole for texture.
7. Add Lemon and Season:
Now, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. This will brighten everything up!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy every spoonful of your nourishing vegan lemon lentil soup with a turmeric boost!
Enjoy making this soup! It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you need something warm and healthy. 😊
FAQ About Easy Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup with Turmeric Boost
Can I Use Different Types of Lentils?
Yes! While red or yellow lentils work best since they cook quickly and become tender, you can use green or brown lentils. Just keep in mind they will require a longer cooking time (about 30-40 minutes) until tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that any vegetable broth you use is labeled gluten-free, and you’re all set!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. Store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a simple salad, or over cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a more filling meal. Enjoy it just the way you like it!
