Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils

why make this recipe

Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils is a wholesome and hearty dish. It is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for those chilly days when comfort food is a must. The combination of carrots, lentils, and spices creates a rich and satisfying meal. Plus, it is simple to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this soup hits the spot.

how to make Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
• Sriracha or chili oil, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Bloom the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add Carrots and Lentils: Add the chopped carrots and rinsed red lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, making sure that the carrots and lentils are fully submerged.
6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the lentils have thickened the soup.
7. Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
8. Add Sesame Oil: Stir in the sesame oil.
9. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
10. Adjust Spices: If you like more heat, add extra cayenne pepper.
11. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro, if using.
12. Add Spice (Optional): Drizzle with Sriracha or chili oil for an extra kick, if desired.

how to serve Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils

Serve this soup hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. The soup can be savored on its own or paired with your favorite toppings, such as more sesame seeds, extra cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil for added heat.

how to store Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup. Just pour it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

tips to make Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh carrots, garlic, and ginger will elevate the taste.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Add more cayenne for a spicier soup or reduce it for a milder taste.
• For added texture, consider including greens like spinach or kale at the end of cooking.

variation

You can add other vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers for different flavors. If you’re looking for extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or tofu. For a more substantial meal, serve the soup over rice or quinoa.

FAQs

1. Can I use green lentils instead of red?
   Yes, but be aware that green lentils take longer to cook and will change the texture of the soup.

2. Is this soup vegan?
   Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and doesn’t include any animal products.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it great for meal prep.