Warm, comforting Red Lentil Soup is a nourishing recipe made with a blend of veggies and warm spices like cumin, coriander and curry. Serve with fresh lemon juice and pita chips or fried pita bites for a super vegan friendly meal in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Course: Main, Soup
Cuisine: American
Keyword: lentil soup, red lentil soup recipe, vegan, vegetarian
Heat 2 Tablespoons oil in a large pan and sauté the onions for 3-5 minutes or until almost golden. Add half the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds then add the minced tomatoes, jalapeno, tomato paste and spices. Sauté for 2-3 minutes then stir in the lentils and water. The mixture may seem watery but it will thicken as it cooks and rests. You may need to add more water later as needed.
Cover and cook down for 15 minutes or until lentils are cooked through. Using an immersion blender, half blend the mixture for a few seconds until half creamy. Alternatively, transfer half the mixture to a blender and blend for 30 seconds. Top with the chopped dill and half the minced cilantro.
In a separate pan, sauté remaining minced garlic and cilantro in 2 Tablespoons olive oil and 1 Tablespoon butter, for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic begins to develop a golden color. Add the mixture to the lentil soup and stir to combine.
Serve in soup bowls with lemon wedges and pita chips or fried pita bread bites (see below).
To make pita bread bites, slice a pita bread into small squares and fry in hot oil for 1 minute or until golden brown. Remove onto a paper towel-lined plate.
Notes
Storing leftovers:
In the refrigerator: Once completely cool, transfer soup to an airtight container and place it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Transfer cooled soup to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as the soup freezes. Then, label it with the date.
To reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed throughout.