Vegan Red Lentil Soup: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Vegan Red Lentil Soup is a comforting, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a delicious and nutritious option for lunch, dinner, or even a light supper.

Vegan Red Lentil Soup Ingredients

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Red Lentil Soup Recipe

This vegan red lentil soup is:

• Simple to make: With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh vegetables, you can have a pot of flavorful soup simmering on the stovetop in no time.
• Budget-friendly: Lentils are an incredibly affordable source of plant-based protein, making this soup a wallet-friendly meal option.
• Packed with flavor: Aromatic spices, herbs, and vegetables create a depth of flavor that will leave you craving another bowl.
• Easily customizable: Adjust the spice level, add your favorite vegetables, or stir in a swirl of plant-based cream for a personalized touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Vegan sour cream or yogurt (optional, for garnish)

Chopped Vegetables and Spices for Soup

How to Make Vegan Red Lentil Soup

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Bloom the spices: Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Add the lentils and broth: Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer until tender: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

“For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until you reach your desired consistency,” advises renowned vegan chef, Anya Sharma.

5. Adjust the seasonings: Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt, if desired.

Simmering Red Lentil Soup

Tips for the Best Vegan Red Lentil Soup

• Rinse the lentils: Rinsing the lentils before cooking helps to remove any dirt or debris and can also prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Don’t overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can make the soup thick and mushy. Simmer the soup until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit it altogether.
• Get creative with toppings: In addition to the suggested toppings, feel free to experiment with other flavorful additions, such as roasted chickpeas, chopped fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

FAQs About Vegan Red Lentil Soup

Can I use green lentils instead of red lentils?

While you can use green lentils, they have a different texture and longer cooking time than red lentils. Green lentils will remain firmer after cooking, while red lentils will break down and create a creamier soup.

How long does vegan red lentil soup last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze vegan red lentil soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some other vegetables I can add to this soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or leafy greens like spinach or kale.

How can I make this soup spicier?

For those who prefer a spicier soup, you can add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier chili powder. You can also add a chopped jalapeno or serrano pepper along with the onions and carrots.

This vegan red lentil soup is a testament to how simple, flavorful, and satisfying plant-based cooking can be. Make a pot today and experience the heartwarming goodness of this comforting classic. And if you’re looking for other comforting soup recipes, check out this vegan pea soup recipe or this flavorful vegan 10 bean soup recipe. For a lighter meal option, explore these quick vegan dinner ideas or try this delicious vegan green lentil recipe.