Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, you’ll absolutely love this Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup recipe. It warms me up on chilly days and fills me with wholesome goodness.
The combination of spices creates a delightful aroma that makes my kitchen feel inviting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare; I can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing.
The lentils provide a satisfying texture, while the veggies add vibrant colors. Each bowl is like a hug in soup form, nourishing both body and soul. Trust me, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup
When it comes to making a delicious Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup, the right ingredients are key. This soup is all about comfort and warmth, and you’ll be surprised by how easy it’s to gather everything you need.
Picture yourself in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, and breathing in the aromatic spices. It’s a cozy scene that sets the stage for a fantastic meal. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish.
- 2 onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 (400 g) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 2/3 liters vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 200 g red lentils
- 1 (400 g) can sweetcorn
- 250 g almond butter
Now, here’s a little secret: don’t stress too much about the exact measurements. If you prefer a bit more spice, go ahead and add an extra sprinkle of chili powder.
Got some leftover veggies in the fridge? Toss them in too; they’ll add texture and flavor. And if almond butter isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for peanut butter or even tahini.
This recipe is super forgiving and allows for some creativity, which is perfect for when you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen. Just remember, the heart of this soup is all about the warm, comforting vibe it brings to your table.
How to Make Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup
Making Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup is as simple as gathering your ingredients and letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Start by prepping your veggies. You’ll want to peel and dice 2 onions into small chunks. Get those red bell peppers ready by chopping them up and removing the seeds—no one wants a surprise crunch of seeds in their soup.
And don’t forget to crush 2 garlic cloves; the scent of garlic sautéing is one of life’s little pleasures, isn’t it? Once everything is chopped up, toss all the veggies into the slow cooker like a pro. Seriously, just dump it all in there. It’s therapeutic.
Now, it’s time to add some flavor. Open up that can of chopped tomatoes (1 (400 g) can) and pour it into the mix, along with 1 (400 g) can of sweetcorn for that lovely sweetness. Then, pour in 1 2/3 liters of vegetable broth—this is where the magic happens.
Spice things up with 1 teaspoon of cumin and 2 teaspoons of chili powder. I like to think of chili powder as the party starter of the soup world. Finally, toss in 200 g of red lentils, which will thicken the soup and add a hearty texture. Give everything a good stir, cover it up, and set your slow cooker to medium heat for 4-5 hours or low heat for 8-9 hours. Just imagine how wonderful your kitchen will smell while this simmers away.
About an hour before you’re ready to serve, here’s the real secret weapon: add in 250 g of almond butter. Stir it in and let it melt into the mix, adding richness and creaminess that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
If you’re feeling fancy, grab an immersion blender and blend the soup to your desired consistency. But hey, if you like it chunky, go for that rustic vibe. When it’s all done, serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some nutritional yeast flakes for that extra pizzazz. Enjoy the warmth of the soup and the cozy vibes it brings. Trust me, it’s a bowl of happiness.
Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup Substitutions & Variations
While the base recipe for Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup is delicious on its own, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
For instance, you can swap red lentils for green or brown lentils, adjusting cooking times accordingly. If you’re not a fan of almond butter, try tahini or cashew butter instead.
Adding different vegetables like carrots or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. You could even spice it up with some fresh ginger or lime juice.
Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this soup your own!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Vegetarian Spiced Lentil Soup turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping your ingredients ahead of time. This way, you’ll save time during cooking and make sure everything’s ready to go.
If you want more depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
Finally, serving this soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or nutritional yeast adds a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort!