Curried Lentil Soup

Name: Curried Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Curried Lentil Soup, especially on chilly days when I'm craving something warm and comforting. The combination of spices mingles perfectly with the rich lentils, offering layers of flavor in every spoonful. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious and filling. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. I always keep the ingredients on hand so I can whip it up whenever the mood strikes!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:41:35.333Z

When I first tried my hand at making Curried Lentil Soup, I was amazed at how easily all the flavors blended together. The curry imparted this delightful warmth, while the lentils created a wonderfully hearty texture. As a tip, I recommend letting the soup sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps deepen the flavors even more.

Each time I make this soup, I experiment with different vegetables and spices, and it always turns out great! Just make sure to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preferences. It’s all about creating that perfect bowl of comfort.

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Aromatic spices elevate comfort food to a whole new level
Packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Lentils are the star of this soup, not just for their heartiness but also for their ability to absorb flavors. Green and brown lentils hold their shape well, providing a delightful texture in contrast to the smoothness of the coconut milk. If you want a faster-cooking option, red lentils can be substituted, but keep in mind they will break down more and create a different texture.

Coconut milk adds a creamy richness that balances the spices beautifully. When selecting coconut milk, look for full-fat versions for a more luxurious mouthfeel. Light coconut milk can be used if you're seeking to reduce calories, but it may lead to a thinner soup. If you're allergic to coconut, consider substituting with almond or cashew cream, although this will alter the final flavor profile.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sautéing the vegetables until they're soft is a crucial step for enhancing the soup's flavor. Aim for a light golden color, which usually takes about 5 minutes. If you find that the vegetables are sticking to the pot, add a splash of broth to deglaze and prevent burning. This little tip helps incorporate those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, enriching your soup further.

Managing the heat during the simmering phase is important for achieving tender lentils without mushiness. Once it reaches a boil, reduce to low heat and cover. A gentle simmer allows the lentils to cook evenly, typically within 20-25 minutes. Always taste toward the end; adjusting with more salt or curry powder may elevate the flavors even further.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Curried Lentil Soup

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Instructions to Prepare Curried Lentil Soup

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in curry powder and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add the lentils and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Curried Lentil Soup!

Pair this soup with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try incorporating sautéed spinach or kale just before serving. It not only enhances nutrition but also adds a beautiful color to your soup.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Curried Lentil Soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the refrigerator. Store in airtight containers for up to five days, and the soup will only get better as it sits. Just stir well and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust consistency.

If you're looking to freeze the soup, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-friendly bags or containers. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently in a pot, as high heat can cause the lentils to break down.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a heartier meal, consider serving the Curried Lentil Soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. The fiber and protein will keep you satiated longer, making it a well-rounded dinner option. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top can add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach or kale can be tossed in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color. If you wish to add protein, cooked chicken or chickpeas can be stirred in before serving, giving the soup more substance while maintaining its comfort food appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.

→ How long does the soup last in the fridge?

Curried Lentil Soup can last up to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze Curried Lentil Soup?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ Can I use canned lentils instead?

You can, but using dried lentils gives the soup a better texture. If you use canned lentils, reduce the cooking time accordingly.