This vibrant vegan lemon lentil soup is packed with flavor! It combines hearty lentils, zesty lemon, and warm turmeric for a deliciously comforting experience.
I love how easy this soup is to whip up—just toss everything in and let it simmer! It’s great with some crusty bread, and it’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Lentils: These cook quickly and are perfect for soups. If you can’t find red lentils, yellow lentils or split peas can work too, but they may change the cooking time and texture slightly.
Vegetables: Carrots add sweetness. You can swap them with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor. For the greens, kale is robust, while spinach gives a softer taste. Both are nutritious and can be used interchangeably based on your preference!
Spices: Turmeric and cumin are key for flavor. Adjust these to your taste; for a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne. If you don’t have turmeric, curry powder can be a nice alternative as it has a similar flavor profile.
Broth or Water: Using vegetable broth enhances the flavor, but if you don’t have it, water is just fine. To enrich plain water, you could add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for depth.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the soup! If you’re out of lemons, a splash of apple cider vinegar can add a tangy note as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Lentils Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking lentils might seem tricky, but with a little care, they can turn out just right! Start by rinsing them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. This ensures a cleaner taste in your soup.
- Cook on a gentle simmer after bringing to a boil; high heat can cause them to break apart and become mushy.
- Keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark. Red lentils usually cook fast, so check for tenderness as you approach 25 minutes.
- If the soup thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked lentils that add heartiness to your soup! Enjoy the warm, soothing dish.
How to Make Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup With Turmeric
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 cup fresh kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus extra for garnish
- ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 lemon, juiced (plus 2 lemon slices for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. That means you can have a hearty and flavorful meal ready in just 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. This step adds a lovely base flavor to your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Spices
Next, add the minced garlic, ground turmeric, cumin, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will let the spices become aromatic and really bring out their flavors.
3. Mix In Carrots and Lentils
Now it’s time to add the sliced carrots and rinsed red lentils to the pot. Give it a good stir to ensure all the lentils and carrots are nicely coated with the spices you just added.
4. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils and carrots are tender.
5. Stir in the Greens
Once the lentils and carrots are cooked through, stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
6. Finish with Lemon
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if you like. The lemon will brighten all the flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy this warm, comforting soup that’s both nutritious and delicious!
This vibrant Vegan Lemon Lentil Soup offers a delightful mix of flavors—from tangy lemon to earthy turmeric—making it a perfect dish for any day!
Can I Use Different Types of Lentils?
While red lentils are ideal for this soup because they cook quickly and break down to create a creamy texture, you can use other lentils like green or brown. Just keep in mind that they will take longer to cook and might not create the same creamy consistency.
Is There a Substitute for Olive Oil?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid olive oil, you can use coconut oil or another neutral oil like avocado or canola oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, but all are excellent for cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the other spices. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste as it cooks!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much during storage.
