Welcome to a cozy bowl of comfort with our Ginger-Spiced Lentil Soup. This recipe blends warm spices with hearty lentils, making it an ideal choice for a chilly day or when you need a satisfying meal that's both nourishing and full of flavor.
Lentils are the star of the show, providing protein and a satisfying texture. Olive oil adds richness and helps to sauté the aromatics. Onion, garlic, and ginger form the flavor base, offering sweetness and warmth. Carrots and celery bring a touch of earthiness and crunch. Vegetable broth serves as the liquid foundation, melding all ingredients together. Cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper introduce depth and heat, while salt and black pepper enhance overall flavor. Diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, and lemon juice brightens the dish. Finally, spinach and cilantro provide fresh, vibrant notes to finish.
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of warm naan. A dollop of yogurt on top can add a creamy contrast, and a simple green salad would round out the meal nicely.
First things first, give those lentils a good rinse under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Set them aside for now. Grab a large pot and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion, garlic, and ginger. Let them sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and everything smells divine.
Next, it's time for the veggies. Add the carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, just until they start to soften. Now, stir in those rinsed lentils, followed by the vegetable broth, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring it all to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the lentils are tender. Stir in the diced tomatoes, lemon juice, and spinach. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts nicely. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
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