As the crisp fall air sets in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of hearty soup. This Curried Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Soup is a warm embrace for your taste buds, combining the earthy flavors of lentils with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a kick of aromatic spices.
Packed with nutrients and plant-based protein, this soup is a delightful addition to your cozy season repertoire. Effortlessly vegan and gluten-free, it’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to various dietary needs without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick of heat)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion in a bit of olive oil or vegetable broth until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toast the spices for a minute to release their aroma.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes, red lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
- Once the vegetables are cooked through, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or naan for dipping.
This Curried Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Soup is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy autumn evening. The velvety coconut milk adds a luxurious creaminess, while the blend of spices infuses each bite with warmth and depth. Enjoy this nourishing bowl of comfort, and let the aromatic spices linger on your palate long after the last spoonful.
