Thick and Creamy Lentil Soup with Lemon
Try this Thick and Creamy Lentil Soup with Lemon recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Thick and Creamy Lentil Soup with Lemon recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 teaspoon salt (i use coarse kosher salt)
- 1 cup chopped white or yellow onions
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (i use coarsely ground black pepper)
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups red or brown lentils (about 16 ounces) rinsed and picked through (see note)
- 1 1/2 cups (about 9-12 ounces) small diced carrots
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk reduced fat or regular
- Carbohydrate 2.70327374926855 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 13.1771333515712 g
- Fiber 0.347691660329596 g
- Protein 0.836864166473546 g
- Saturated Fat 4.74424496069297 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (39g)
- Sodium 9.5480416621611 mg
- Sugar 2.35558208893895 g
- Trans Fat 0.701794209203012 g
- Calories 127 calories
Step-by-step
- For the Instant Pot, using the Sauté function, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until they start to turn translucent, 2-3 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic, cumin and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is sizzling and fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, lentils, and carrots. Give the mixture a good stir.
- Secure the lid, making sure the valve is closed. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes (I select Manual and then dial up or down to 12). The Instant Pot will start on its own and beep when finished.
- Let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 min and then quick release the rest of the pressure. If liquid bubbles and spurts through the valve, close the valve and wait a few minutes before trying again.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of the coconut milk (adding more if you want extra creaminess), lemon juice, and additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
- You can leave the soup chunky or you can puree in a blender (or use an immersion blender right in the pot) to desired consistency. The soup will thicken as it cools.
- For the stovetop, in a large saucepan/pot, heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until they start to turn translucent, 2-3 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic, cumin and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is sizzling and fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, lentils, and carrots. Give the mixture a good stir.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cook for 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir often to prevent sticking (and moderate heat if needed).
- Stir in 1/2 cup of the coconut milk (adding more if you want extra creaminess), lemon juice, and additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
- You can leave the soup chunky or you can puree in a blender (or use an immersion blender right in the pot) to desired consistency. The soup will thicken as it cools.
My Cozy Kitchen: A Simple Lentil Soup Story
Life's a whirlwind, isn't it? Between work deadlines, grocery shopping, and trying to squeeze in a workout, finding time for a wholesome, home-cooked meal can feel like a luxury. But honestly, that’s where I find my peace. The simple act of creating something nourishing and delicious from scratch is a form of self-care I wouldn’t trade for the world. This lentil soup is my go-to comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. It’s quick, easy, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. It’s a perfect example of how a few basic ingredients can transform into something truly special. The creamy texture from the coconut milk is a delightful surprise, while the bright, tangy lemon juice adds a refreshing counterpoint to the earthy lentils. I love using coarsely ground black pepper and kosher salt; they give the soup a more pronounced depth of flavor, but you can adjust to your preference, of course.
I often experiment with variations. Sometimes I add a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. Other times, I'll toss in some chopped kale for extra nutrients. I’ve even been known to add a splash of sherry or white wine for a more sophisticated touch. The possibilities are endless! And honestly, that's what makes cooking so enjoyable; it's all about embracing experimentation and creating something that tastes truly you. The beauty of this soup is that it is forgiving: If you want it thicker, add a bit more coconut milk or let it simmer for longer. And if it is a little thin for you, simply simmer uncovered for a while longer.
This soup isn’t just a meal; it's a moment of mindfulness, a pause in the chaos. It's the warmth of a comforting hug on a cold day. And it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of love. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath, put on some music, and make yourself a bowl of this delicious lentil soup. You deserve it.
Beyond the Bowl: Making it Your Own
One of the things I adore about this recipe is its adaptability. It’s a fantastic blank canvas for culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to make this recipe your own:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Add some greens: Spinach, kale, or chard would be delicious additions in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Boost the veggies: Throw in some diced potatoes, celery, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrients.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a dollop of plain yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano would all complement the flavors beautifully.
This lentil soup is more than just a recipe; it's a reflection of my approach to life – simple, nourishing, and always open to new possibilities. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
