Creamy Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a balance of creamy, spicy, and earthy flavors. The creamy coconut milk blends perfectly with the lentils, while the turmeric, curry powder, and cumin infuse the soup with a rich depth of flavor. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein, making it a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 2 tablespoons curry powder

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 medium carrot, diced

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• Juice of 1 lime

Directions

Prepare the Soup Base:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Toast the Spices:
Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and ground cumin. Let the spices cook for an additional minute to toast them and enhance their flavor.

Add Vegetables and Broth:
Add the diced carrot and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, pour in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Blend and Season:
Once the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired texture. You can make it completely smooth or leave it a bit chunky for more texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add lime juice for a touch of brightness.

Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added color and nutrition.

• Add heat: For a spicier kick, add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the spices.

• Use different vegetables: Swap the carrot and bell pepper with sweet potatoes, zucchini, or cauliflower for a different take on the soup.

• Make it creamy: For an even richer texture, add an extra can of coconut milk or a dollop of coconut cream.

• Use different lentils: Green or brown lentils can be used instead of red lentils, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.

• Top with protein: Add cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes for extra protein.

• Make it crunchy: Top the soup with roasted cashews or seeds for added texture.

• Add a bit of sweetness: A touch of maple syrup or brown sugar can balance the flavors if you prefer a sweeter soup.

• Herb variations: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary while simmering for extra flavor.

• Use coconut oil: Swap olive oil for coconut oil for a more tropical taste.

• Make it more savory: Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for a deeper umami flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out if needed. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lentil?

Yes, while red lentils cook faster and break down into a creamy texture, you can use green or brown lentils. Just note that they may need a bit more cooking time.

Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild heat, thanks to the curry powder and spices, but it is not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili or red pepper flakes.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. It’s great for meal prep.

Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?

Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use canned carrots or bell peppers if needed, though the taste might differ slightly.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or pressure cooker?

Yes, you can. For a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. For a pressure cooker, cook for about 10 minutes on high pressure, then quick-release the steam.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add protein to the soup?

Absolutely! Adding chickpeas, tofu, or even a dollop of cashew cream can increase the protein content.

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, using coconut cream will make the soup even richer and creamier. You may need to adjust the amount of broth to balance the consistency.

How do I know when the lentils are done cooking?

Red lentils will become tender and begin to break down, thickening the soup. Taste a lentil to check for doneness, and if they are soft, the soup is ready.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, if you like a spicy soup, add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the curry powder and turmeric.

Conclusion

Creamy Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and nourishment. With its rich coconut flavor, vibrant spices, and hearty lentils, it’s the ultimate vegan-friendly dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a filling meal for a cozy night or meal prep for the week, this soup is easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to try it and customize it with your favorite ingredients for the perfect bowl of warmth.