Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup with Cumin and Coriander
This Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup combines the robust flavors of tomatoes, lentils, cumin, and coriander, creating a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for any time of the day.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried red lentils (200g / 7oz)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped (150g / 5.3oz)
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced (100g / 3.5oz)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin (2g)
- 1 tsp ground coriander (2g)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (1g) (adjust to taste)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz / 400g)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml)
- 1 tsp salt (5g), or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (1g)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (15g)
- Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold running water and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the carrots begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their flavors.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and add the rinsed lentils. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are fully cooked and tender.
- Add the tomato paste, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh coriander and accompanied by a wedge of lemon for squeezing.
Notes
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot to your desired consistency.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
If the soup is too thick after storing, simply add a bit of water or vegetable broth when reheating to reach the desired consistency.