Curried Red Lentil Soup

Curried Red Lentil Soup Recipe from India with Coconut, Peanuts, and Raisins

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Curried Red Lentil Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the red lentils, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

History

Curried Red Lentil Soup has its origins in Indian cuisine, where lentils are a staple ingredient. Lentils have been cultivated for thousands of years and are a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes around the world.

Ingredients

1 cup hulled red lentils, rinsed in hot water
4.5 cups nonfat vegetable stock
2 tbsp nonfat plain yogurt
1 tsp curry powder, or to taste
1 tsp grated fresh ginger, or to taste
0.5 tsp ground cumin, or to taste
0.25 tsp cayenne, or to taste
0.5 tsp onion powder, or to taste
shredded coconut as garnish
Dried peanuts as garnish
cilantro leaves as garnish
Diced red pepper as garnish
chutney as garnish
raisins as garnish

How to prepare

1. In a large saucepan, combine Lentils and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until Lentils are tender. Then, reduce heat to very low.
2. In a blender, combine 2 cups of Lentils and yogurt. Blend until smooth. Return the purée to the saucepan with the soup and stir in the seasonings. Heat through and serve, garnishing each portion as desired.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Use coconut milk instead of yogurt for a creamier texture.
Experiment with different spices such as turmeric, coriander, or garam masala for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any debris.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.

- Garnish with a variety of toppings for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Curried Red Lentil Soup with a side of naan bread or rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded coconut, and diced red pepper for added flavor and color.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the lentils until they are tender to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute red lentils with green or brown lentils if desired.

- Use sour cream or coconut cream instead of yogurt for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Curried Red Lentil Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Curried Red Lentil Soup in individual bowls and garnish with a variety of toppings such as dried peanuts, chutney, and raisins for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Curried Red Lentil Soup with a side of garlic naan bread or basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of cucumber raita or mango chutney for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Curried Red Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Curried Red Lentil Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Curried Red Lentil Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Curried Red Lentil Soup is a good source of protein, with about 15 grams per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Lentils are rich in iron, folate, and potassium, making this soup a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten. However, be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are safe for your dietary needs.

Summary

Curried Red Lentil Soup is a healthy and satisfying dish that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Curried Red Lentil Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this soup is a healthy and satisfying option for a balanced diet. Garnish with your favorite toppings and enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Curried Red Lentil Soup.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I first learned how to make Curried Red Lentil Soup. I remember it like it was yesterday, the way the fragrant spices filled the kitchen and the warmth of the soup on a cold winter day.

I was visiting my Aunt Mary, who was known in our family for her delicious and exotic dishes. She had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to India, and she was eager to pass it on to me. As we stood in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aromas of cumin, coriander, and turmeric, she guided me through the steps of making the soup.

First, she showed me how to rinse and drain the red lentils, explaining that this would help remove any dirt or debris. Then, she taught me how to chop the onions and garlic, and sauté them in a little oil until they were soft and fragrant. Next, she added the spices – curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric – stirring them into the onions and garlic until they formed a rich, golden paste.

As the spices toasted and released their aromas, Aunt Mary poured in the vegetable broth and brought the mixture to a simmer. She added the red lentils, stirring them gently into the broth, and covered the pot to let the soup cook until the lentils were tender.

Finally, she showed me how to finish the soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a handful of chopped cilantro. The bright flavors of the lemon and cilantro balanced the warm spices, creating a soup that was both comforting and invigorating.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first spoonful of the Curried Red Lentil Soup and was immediately transported to a world of flavor and warmth. The creamy lentils, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs combined to create a dish that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, Curried Red Lentil Soup became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and whenever I needed a comforting meal to soothe my soul. Each time I made it, I thought of Aunt Mary and the day she taught me how to make this delicious and exotic dish.

Over the years, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, incorporating different vegetables, proteins, and spices to create new and exciting versions of the soup. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first time learning from Aunt Mary will always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I pass down the recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they too will find joy and comfort in the flavors of Curried Red Lentil Soup. For me, it is not just a dish, but a precious memory of love, family, and the joy of discovering new flavors and recipes. And I am grateful to Aunt Mary for introducing me to this delicious and soul-warming soup all those years ago.