Spicy Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients

This spicy lentil soup recipe is a perfect comfort food for chilly nights. Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1 cup dried lentils, sorted and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious spicy lentil soup:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper and stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
7. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot.
8. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
10. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread.

Nutrition

This spicy lentil soup recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here's the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 215
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 918mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 15g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 13g

This soup is a great source of fiber, protein, iron, and other vitamins and minerals. It's also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Variations

This spicy lentil soup recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

• Use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a meatier flavor.
• Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
• Use different spices, such as curry powder, turmeric, or cinnamon, to change up the flavor profile.
• Top the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy finish.
• Serve the soup with a side of rice, quinoa, or naan bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This spicy lentil soup recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly nights or when you're in need of a comforting meal. It's easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warm, spicy goodness!