Carrot and Lentil Soup (Printable)

Sweet carrots and protein-rich lentils simmered with cumin, coriander, and turmeric for a comforting, creamy bowl.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 celery stalk, chopped

→ Lentils

05 - 3/4 cup red lentils, rinsed

→ Liquids

06 - 4 cups vegetable stock
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk, optional

→ Spices and Seasoning

08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
11 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

13 - Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped, optional
14 - Yogurt or coconut cream for serving, optional

# How-To:

01 - Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté onion, garlic, and celery for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Add the carrots and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add rinsed lentils, vegetable stock, and coconut milk if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the carrots and lentils are tender.
05 - Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave slightly chunky if preferred.
06 - Season with salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a swirl of yogurt or coconut cream if desired.

# Expert Hacks:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour with mostly pantry staples you already have
  • The combination of sweet carrots and earthy lentils creates this incredible depth that feels like its been simmering all day
  • One pot, minimal cleanup, and it freezes beautifully for those nights when cooking feels impossible
02 -
  • Rinse your red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear or your soup will end up with an odd muddy color from the dust coating them
  • The soup thickens considerably as it cools, so if youre reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it back up
03 -
  • Add a splash of lemon juice right at the end to brighten all the flavors and make them pop
  • If you want extra smokiness, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika along with the other spices
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