Are you ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort? Curry Brown Lentil Soup is here to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. This hearty soup combines the earthy richness of lentils with the bold flavors of curry, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with goodness.
If you’re looking for more lentil recipes view my full collection here.
Health Benefits of Brown Lentils
Nutritional Profile
Brown lentils are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Including lentils in your diet can help maintain energy levels, support muscle repair, and promote overall well-being.
Benefits for Digestion
Thanks to their high fiber content, brown lentils are excellent for digestive health. They aid in regular bowel movements and help prevent constipation. Plus, they keep you feeling full longer, which can be beneficial for weight management.
Protein Powerhouse
For vegetarians and vegans, lentils are an invaluable source of protein. They provide the essential amino acids your body needs, making them a great alternative to animal-based proteins.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Let’s talk about what goes into this amazing Curry Brown Lentil Soup. Here are the key ingredients and some possible substitutions:
- Dry Brown Lentils: These are soaked for 4 hours, then rinsed and drained. You can use canned lentils if you’re short on time.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor. Substitute with coconut oil for a different taste profile.
- Yellow Onion: Finely diced for a sweet, aromatic base. Shallots or red onions can also work.
- Carrots: Diced for a hint of sweetness and texture. Parsnips are a good alternative.
- Potatoes: Cubed for heartiness. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can be used for a twist.
- Garlic and Ginger: Minced for a zesty kick. Fresh is best, but powdered versions can be substituted in a pinch.
- Curry Powder and Cumin: These spices are crucial for that curry flavor. Garam masala or a blend of turmeric and coriander can be used if you don’t have curry powder.
- Tomato Paste: Adds depth and richness. Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce can be a substitute.
- Vegetable Broth: Forms the soup base. Chicken broth can be used if you’re not vegetarian.
- Water: Adjusts the consistency. More broth can be used instead.
- Hot Chili Flakes, Salt, and Pepper: For seasoning. Adjust to taste.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness. Honey or agave syrup can be used.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to brighten the flavors. Lime juice works too.
Helpful Tools
To make this Curry Brown Lentil Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large Saucepan: For cooking the soup.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the vegetables.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
- Immersion Blender: Optional, if you prefer a smoother soup texture.
How To Make This Curry Brown Lentil Soup Recipe
Here’s how to whip up a delicious pot of Curry Brown Lentil Soup:
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large saucepan on medium heat, add olive oil, diced onion, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Add Aromatics and Spices: Next, add garlic, ginger, curry powder, and cumin. Stir continuously to toast the spices for about 1 minute, releasing their flavors.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and cook down for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to meld with the spices.
Combine the Main Ingredients: Add in the vegetable broth, water, lentils, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Finish the Soup: Add the chopped kale and maple syrup, simmer for another 5 minutes.
Season and Serve: Check the lentils for tenderness. Season with hot chili flakes, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks For This Curry Brown Lentil Soup
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of curry powder and chili flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Layering Flavors: Toasting the spices enhances their flavors, so don’t skip this step.
FAQs
Yes, you can. Use 2x 15oz cans of brown lentils and reduce the simmering time to 15-20 minutes.
Absolutely! This recipe is both vegan and gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth.
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Add more hot chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
Curry Brown Lentil Soup Vegan with Kale and Potato
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry brown lentils (soaked for 4 hours, then rinsed and drained)
- 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 3-4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- hot chili flakes, salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- fresh sqeeze of lemon juice to top each bowl
Instructions
- In a large saucepan on medium heat, add olive oil, diced onion and carrots and cook for 3-4 mins.
- Next, add garlic, ginger, curry powder and cumin. Stir continuously to toast the spices for 1 min.
- Now add the tomato paste and cook down for 1-2 mins.
- Add in the vegetable broth, water, lentils and potatoes. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the chopped kale and maple syrup and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Check to make sure the lentils are cooked and tender, then season with hot chili flakes, salt, pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Curry Brown Lentil Soup
Curry Brown Lentil Soup is a delightful, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Loved this recipe so easy to make and sooo delicious! New follower from the UK! Keep posting these delicious recipes
Thank you so much Amelia! And thank you for following I’ll keep putting out new vegan recipes for sure! 🙂
Found you on YouTube and I’m obsessed with your recipes. Everyone is so delicious and lots of healthy options. Keep it up 😀
Thank you SO much!! I’m so happy you’ve been loving all the healthy plant based recipes. Thank you so much for all the support! 🙂