Soups

Cozy Carrot Lentil Soup

By Martha

Everyday Kitchen Bliss!

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There’s something heartwarming about a bowl of homemade soup, especially on a crisp evening when the world feels a little quieter. This Carrot Lentil Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to pause and savor the simple pleasures of a nourishing meal. Rooted in wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, this dish celebrates the earthy sweetness of carrots, the creamy texture of red lentils, and a blend of spices that gently warm your soul. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or sharing it with loved ones, this soup has a way of bringing comfort and joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this soup comes together in less than an hour.
  • Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples to create a hearty, satisfying meal.
  • Versatile: Customize the seasonings or pair it with your favorite sides for variety.
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Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
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How to Make Carrot Lentil Soup:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before starting, chop your onions, carrots, and garlic. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic, letting the spices toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots and Lentils
Add the diced carrots and red lentils to the pot. Stir to combine everything and ensure the spices evenly coat the vegetables and lentils.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the lentils are soft.

Step 6: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup. Add water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, tangy finish.

Helpful Tips:

  • Customize the Spice Level: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra heat or a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
  • Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of coconut milk after blending for a silky texture.
  • Pair It with Sides: Serve alongside crusty bread, pita, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick lunches during the week.

Recipe Details:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan-friendly
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Notes:

  • Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less water after blending.
  • Use a high-speed blender for a smoother consistency if you don’t have an immersion blender.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Fat: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use green lentils instead of red?
Green lentils take longer to cook and won’t yield the same creamy texture. If you use them, adjust the cooking time and expect a chunkier soup.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What other vegetables can I add?
Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash would pair wonderfully with the carrots and lentils.

Storage Instructions:

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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If you liked this Carrot Lentil Soup, you’ll love these other cozy options:

Conclusion:

There’s a quiet magic in the way a simple soup can transform an ordinary day into something special. This Carrot Lentil Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder that the best meals often come from the heart, using humble ingredients and a touch of care. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your favorite ladle, warm up that pot, and let the flavors of this comforting soup work their magic.

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Cozy Carrot Lentil Soup


  • Author: Martha

Description

There’s something heartwarming about a bowl of homemade soup, especially on a crisp evening when the world feels a little quieter. This Carrot Lentil Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to pause and savor the simple pleasures of a nourishing meal. Rooted in wholesome ingredients and minimal effort, this dish celebrates the earthy sweetness of carrots, the creamy texture of red lentils, and a blend of spices that gently warm your soul. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or sharing it with loved ones, this soup has a way of bringing comfort and joy to your table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before starting, chop your onions, carrots, and garlic. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic, letting the spices toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances their flavors and fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots and Lentils
Add the diced carrots and red lentils to the pot. Stir to combine everything and ensure the spices evenly coat the vegetables and lentils.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the lentils are soft.

Step 6: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup. Add water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, tangy finish.

Notes

  • Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less water after blending.
  • Use a high-speed blender for a smoother consistency if you don’t have an immersion blender.

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