spicy lentil soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best spicy lentil soup recipe

I’ve been making spicy lentil soup for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it because it’s a fun and flavorful way to get some veggies in them.

I love it because it’s so easy to make and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables we have on hand.

The lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this soup a satisfying and filling meal. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can adjust the level of heat to your liking, add in different spices or herbs, or even use different types of lentils if you prefer.

I like to serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal. My family always asks for this soup when they’re feeling under the weather, and I love that it’s a comfort food that can help soothe their souls.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this spicy lentil soup recipe is sure to please. It’s also a great way to get in some extra veggies – just be sure to chop them up finely so they cook evenly.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality spices – don’t be afraid to splurge on some fresh cumin or coriander if you can find them. It makes all the difference in the flavor of the soup.

Spicy Lentil Soup

4.6 from 1523 votes

A hearty and warming lentil soup with a kick of heat from chili flakes and cumin. This one-pot meal is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Fresh cilantro for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
3Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
5Stir constantly for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant and coat the vegetables evenly.
6Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and vegetable broth.
7Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
8Simmer for 25 minutes until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened.
9Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
10Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
11Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 18g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a milder soup, reduce the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon each. You can also use green or brown lentils; red lentils will break down more and create a creamier texture.

Watch Video Of How Spicy Lentil Soup Works

This spicy lentil soup recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and adaptable to any occasion.

We love serving it at family gatherings because it’s so easy to scale up and everyone always raves about how delicious it is.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for later use – just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Lentil Soup

What type of lentils should I use?

Green or brown lentils work best in this recipe, as they hold their shape well and have a mild flavor. You can also use red or yellow lentils if you prefer, but be aware that they will break down more during cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is easily adaptable to a vegan diet – simply swap out the chicken broth for a vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese at the end.

How spicy is this soup?

You can adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper – start with a small amount and add more to taste.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup base ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use – simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What are some good serving suggestions?

This soup is delicious served with some crusty bread or over rice – you can also top it with some chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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