Spicy Lentil Soup with Carrots (Print)
Hearty lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and warming spices for a cozy, satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
# Ingredient list:
→ Legumes
01 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
→ Vegetables
02 - 2 medium carrots, diced
03 - 2 celery stalks, diced
04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
→ Liquids
07 - 4 cups vegetable broth
08 - 1 cup water
→ Spices & Seasonings
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/4–1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
14 - 1 teaspoon salt
15 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Garnish
16 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
17 - Lemon wedges
# Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and garlic becomes fragrant.
03 - Add cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to release spice aromas.
04 - Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
05 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are completely tender.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For creamier texture, partially blend with immersion blender. Serve hot garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The combination of smoked paprika and chili flakes creates this incredible warmth that builds slowly, perfect for days when you need comfort food with a little personality.
- Its one of those rare soups that actually tastes better the next day, so you're basically meal-prepping while making dinner.
02 -
- I once skipped rinsing the lentils and ended up with gritty soup, so please don't make my mistake, those few seconds matter.
- Letting the spices toast in the hot oil before adding liquid is the secret step that transforms this from basic lentil soup into something special.
03 -
- If you want more protein, add a can of chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- A splash of vinegar or extra lemon juice right before serving can brighten the whole pot.