spicy_lentil_soup_with_carrots_and_celery

Spicy Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

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Lentil soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines lentils, carrots, and celery for a hearty meal. But when you add a little bit of heat to the ingredients, it really comes to life. So here is my complete spicy lentil soup with carrots and celery recipe.

Jump to Recipe

It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with your choice of spices and additional vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients That Pack a Punch

This spicy lentil soup is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that create a nourishing meal. The star of the show is the lentils, which provide a hearty base rich in protein and fiber.

Carrots and celery add a wonderful crunch and natural sweetness, balancing the heat from the spices. The addition of diced tomatoes brings acidity and depth, while aromatic herbs and spices like cumin and smoked paprika elevate the flavor profile.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.

Preparation Steps to Flavorful Soup

Preparing this soup is straightforward and can be done in under an hour. Start by rinsing the lentils and chopping the vegetables.

Next, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they soften, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Adding garlic and spices at this stage enhances the flavor, making the soup even more inviting.

Finally, combine the lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth, and let everything simmer until the lentils are tender. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Adjusting the Spice Level

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. The spice level can be tailored to your preference.

Start with a moderate amount of cayenne pepper, and taste as you go. If you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to add more.

Experimenting with other spices or herbs can also add unique flavors. Consider adding a pinch of turmeric for warmth or a dash of chili powder for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions for Comfort

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into rustic bowls for a cozy presentation.

Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.

This combination creates a comforting meal that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra warmth.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.

It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge.

This way, you can enjoy a warm bowl of spicy lentil soup anytime you crave comfort food.

Nutrition Benefits of Lentil Soup

This spicy lentil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition.

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this soup a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

With a balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins from the vegetables, this soup offers a wholesome meal that supports overall health and well-being.

Hearty Spicy Lentil Soup Recipe

This lentil soup features tender lentils simmered with carrots and celery in a spicy broth, making it both filling and delicious. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Rinse and drain the lentils, dice the carrots and celery, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, add more cayenne for extra heat.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6 bowls
  • Calories: 180kcal
  • Fat: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g

This recipe is part of my 33 Simple Flat Belly Lunch Ideas for a Healthier You. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!

Jeff Campbell
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