Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that is also vegan and gluten-free? Look no further! This Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup recipe ticks all the boxes and is suitable for those following a plant-based diet or avoiding gluten.
About This Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup
A Flavorful and Spicy Option
This soup packs a flavorful and spicy punch, thanks to the combination of spices and seasonings used. Whether you like it mild or extra hot, you can easily adjust the level of spiciness to suit your tastes.
Hearty and Filling
Lentils add a satisfying and filling texture to the soup, making it a great main dish option. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hearty and nutritious meal that will leave them feeling full and satisfied.
Quick and Easy to Make
This recipe is simple and quick to make, with just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. In under an hour, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal that is sure to please. Whether you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal on a cold winter day or a light and refreshing option for a summer lunch, this Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Reasons to Love This Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup Recipe
- Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious and healthy meal ready in under an hour.
- Vegan and gluten-free: This recipe is suitable for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet.
- Flavorful and spicy: The combination of spices and seasonings gives the soup a delicious and spicy flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied.
- Hearty and filling: The lentils add a satisfying and filling texture to the soup, making it a great main dish option.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes by adjusting the level of spiciness, adding additional seasonings, or using different types of lentils.
- Nutritious: Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making this soup a nutritious option for a quick and easy meal.
- Enjoyable all year round: Whether you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal on a cold winter day, or a light and refreshing option for a summer lunch, this Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup is sure to please.
Instructions for Making Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, dried oregano, and salt into the pan.
- Stir until well combined and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the Broth, Tomatoes, and Lentils
- Pour in the vegetable broth, canned crushed tomatoes, and rinsed and drained green lentils into the pan.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Soup
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Stir in the black pepper and lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the soup hot and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Enjoy your delicious and hearty Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup!
Recipe Card
Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup: A Hearty Plant-Based Meal
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup green lentils rinsed and drained
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and lentils. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the black pepper and lemon juice.
- Serve hot and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup
Adjust the spiciness: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili flakes or cayenne pepper used. On the other hand, if you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more.
Use ripe tomatoes: Make sure to use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If you’re using canned tomatoes, look for a high-quality brand that is low in salt.
Experiment with different lentils: This recipe uses brown or green lentils, but you can experiment with different types of lentils, such as red lentils or black lentils, to see what you like best.
Add extra vegetables: You can add additional vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to the soup to make it even more nutritious.
Customize the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and spices used in the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add more herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a more herbal flavor, or add a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly sweeter taste.
Serve with crusty bread: Serve the soup with crusty bread for a comforting and filling meal. You can also sprinkle grated vegan parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Make it in bulk: This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup
With crusty bread: Serve the soup with a warm, crusty bread for dipping. A hearty baguette or sourdough bread works great.
With a side salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad for a complete meal. Try mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette dressing.
With a grilled cheese sandwich: For a comforting and filling lunch or dinner, serve the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich.
With crusty crackers: Serve the soup with a side of crusty crackers, such as seasoned saltine crackers or cheese crackers, for a crunchy texture.
FAQs About the Spicy Tomato-Lentil Soup Recipe
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Simply ensure that the ingredients you use, such as the spices and the broth, are certified gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by reducing the amount of chili flakes or cayenne pepper used in the recipe.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones in this recipe. Simply make sure to drain the canned tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add more vegetables to this recipe, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value and add extra flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables with the onions and garlic before adding the lentils and other ingredients.
