Looking for a delicious and healthy soup option? Try this 1 cup (8 oz) Curried Red Lentil Soup! With only 140 calories per serving, it's a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
This soup is not only low in calories, but it's also packed with health benefits. Lentils are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. They are also known to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and steps to make this flavorful and budget-friendly soup. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a tasty and nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Health Benefits
As mentioned in the introduction, this soup comes with a lot of health benefits. Not only is it low in calories, but it's also a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. Lentils have been shown to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the spices used in this recipe have anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost the immune system. Eating a diet rich in plant-based foods like lentils has also been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Studies have shown that eating foods like lentils can help reduce the risk of colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Overall, this soup is a great choice for anyone looking to improve their health and maintain a healthy weight.
Ingredients
To make this soup, you will need:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, and most of them are pantry staples if you are familiar with middle eastern cuisine.
Preparation Time
Preparation time for this soup is only about 10 minutes. Begin by rinsing the lentils and setting them aside. Then, chop the onion and mince the garlic and ginger. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until they are soft and translucent. Next, add the spices and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Add the lentils and vegetable broth, and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. That's it! This soup is a breeze to make, and you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for this soup is 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Serving Size
This recipe makes 4 servings, each serving is 1 cup (8 oz).
Vegan-friendly
This soup is completely vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for anyone following a plant-based diet, or for anyone looking to reduce their consumption of meat and dairy products.
Gluten-free
This soup is gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat, barley, or rye. It's a safe option for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.
Low-calorie
As mentioned in the introduction, this soup is low in calories, with only 140 calories per serving. It's a great option for anyone watching their weight, or for anyone looking to eat healthier.
Flavorful
Despite being low in calories and healthy, this soup is also incredibly flavorful. The spices used in the recipe give it a warm, aromatic flavor that is perfect for cold winter nights.
Budget-friendly
Another great thing about this soup is that it's budget-friendly. Lentils are an affordable source of protein, and most of the other ingredients used in the recipe are pantry staples. You can make this soup for a fraction of the cost of a fancy restaurant meal.
Soup is a form of physical hug - A recipe is a way to nourish the body and soul.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Curried Red Lentil Soup
1. What are the ingredients in curried red lentil soup?
Curried red lentil soup typically contains red lentils, curry powder, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato paste, vegetable or chicken broth, and coconut milk. Other ingredients may include carrots, celery, and spices such as cumin and coriander.
2. Is curried red lentil soup healthy?
Yes, curried red lentil soup is a nutritious and healthy choice. Lentils are a good source of protein, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the spices used in the soup may have anti-inflammatory properties.
3. How do I make curried red lentil soup?
To make curried red lentil soup, start by sautéing onion, garlic, and ginger in a large pot. Add curry powder and other spices, along with red lentils, broth, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer until the lentils are tender. Finally, stir in coconut milk and season the soup to taste with salt and pepper.
4. Can I freeze curried red lentil soup?
Yes, curried red lentil soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to eat, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
5. What can I serve with curried red lentil soup?
Curried red lentil soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as crusty bread, rice, or naan. You can also top the soup with yogurt, cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added flavor.