Discover the warm embrace of flavors with "Indian Lentil Soup from Debjani" – a dish that not only nourishes your body but also delights your taste buds! This hearty and aromatic soup, brimming with protein-packed lentils and fragrant spices, is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a comforting bowl that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dirt and impurities.
- In a large pot, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot, stirring frequently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the soup gets too thick, feel free to add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Indian Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy with naan or rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water until the water runs clear to remove any impurities and ensure a clean flavor in your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and the garlic and ginger to become fragrant for a deeper flavor profile.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. A pinch of lime juice can also brighten the flavors!
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, garnish your soup with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your Indian Lentil Soup with warm naan or fluffy rice to create a satisfying and complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
