Now that the warmer days are here, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than with a refreshing and flavorful bowl of spiced lentil and tomato soup. This Lebanese-inspired soup offers a perfect balance of warming spices and a rich tomato base, making it a nourishing, hearty dish. Best of all, it’s simple to make and ready in under 30 minutes!
The creamy texture of this soup comes from the red lentils, while the plethora of spices brings comfort without heaviness. Adding Aleppo pepper butter elevates the richness, while the crispy bread or warm pita allows you to savor every mouthful. The spiced Aleppo butter-topped tomatillo salsa provides the perfect finishing touch and transforms the dish into a stunning centerpiece.
Let’s start with the preparation of the helpful ingredients, which will make the soup delicious and mouthwatering.
Ingredients.
Spiced lentil and tomato soup
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– 400g (1 can) crushed tomatoes.
– 4 cups of vegetable stock.
– An onion chopped into small pieces.
– A clove of garlic, which is minced.
– A moderate-level carrot, which is grated.
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground coriander
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
– 1 cup red lentils washed and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, which is to the liking.
– 30g butter, which has no salt.
– Fresh parsley, finely cut into bits.
– ½ teaspoon (Aleppo Pepper)
– Lemon juice
Method
Preparing the base:
In a large pot, pour olive oil on medium heat. After heating the oil, add the sliced onion and sauté it until it turns translucent. Add the garlic and the butter so you can enjoy the mouthwatering fragrance in the next two minutes.
Infuse the spices
Add the remaining spices, like ground cumin, paprika, and ginger. Other things like cinnamon, pepper, and the remaining coriander should also join to add value. Make sure the skillet keeps cooking for close to thirty seconds so that the aromatic spices can blend with other ingredients.
Add the lentils and tomatoes.
Put the rinsed red lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock into the pot. Stir properly, and add salt and black pepper to taste. Wait until the mixture boils, then slow down the flame and allow it to simmer uncovered. Leave it for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the lentils and mixture become soft and tender, the soup is ready to serve.
Blend for creaminess (optional):
If you prefer a smoothie texture, you can use a stick blender, or if you have a different preference, like a chunkier texture, skip the blending step.
Make the Aleppo butter:
Melt the unsalted butter in a small frying pan over medium heat. Once it begins to foam, move the pan over the heat and sauté Aleppo pepper. The spice mixes well and adds a burst of flavor to the soup.
Serve and garnish:
Pour the hot soup into every portioned bowl. Add a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper butter to each warmed bowl of soup. Squeeze a small amount of fresh lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm, crusty, or pita bread for an extra indulgence.
Health Benefits of Spiced Lentil and Tomato Soup
Spiced lentil and tomato soup is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. Here’s how this recipe can contribute to your overall health. You can try our other popular high-protein vegetarian recipes.
Excellent Source of Plant Protein
Spiced lentil and tomato soup is great for vegetarians and vegans because red lentils are an outstanding source of plant-derived protein. Protein supports muscle recovery, strengthens the immune system, and sustains overall health.
High Fiber Content
Spiced lentil and tomato soup contains more fiber and is able to assist in maintaining a healthy digestive system and keeping the intestines healthy. This soup helps manage diabetes because fiber assists in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A is available in carrot soup, which is essential for eye health and the immune system. Onions and garlic are also beneficial to boost the body’s defense system. Additionally, tomatoes offer vitamin C and potassium, both of which are beneficial for heart and skin vitality.
High in Antioxidants
Spices such as coriander, cinnamon, cumin, and paprika are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and slow down the body’s aging process. This mixture makes the soup delicious and is highly recommended for general health and well-being.
Low in Calories and Fat:
The absence of heavy cream makes this soup very low in fat and calories compared to other creamy soups. This makes it suitable for anyone looking for a comforting meal without an excessive amount of unhealthy calories.
Hydrating and Nourishing:
Thanks to its vegetable stock base, this hydrating soup can help in maintaining hydration during the cold months of the year, when consuming water becomes a challenge. The hydrating properties, together with the essential nutrients, make sure one remains active and energized throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Spiced lentil and tomato soup can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Storing it for a day or two might enhance the flavors further. Make sure to reheat it on the stove before serving.
2. Can I freeze the soup?
Of course! You can easily freeze it for up to three months. Just put it in airtight containers or freezer bags. To serve, thaw it overnight, then warm it on the stove.
3. Would it be possible to increase the spice level of spiced lentil and tomato soup?
Definitely, if you want the soup to be spicier, feel free to add bits of cayenne pepper or chili flakes in addition to more Aleppo pepper. Give it a taste and adjust it however you want!
4. Is it possible to make use of another type of lentil?
Even though red lentils provide a lovely, creamy texture to the soup, green and brown lentils are alternatives. These will take longer to cook and may not be as creamy as red lentils.
5. Is it possible to prepare this soup without Aleppo pepper?
Without Aleppo pepper, feel free to use paprika for a milder bite in addition to crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier bite. If you want simplicity in flavor, omit the Aleppo butter and pepper, too.
6. Would it be possible to prepare this spiced lentil and tomato soup without butter?
Yes, to make the pepper butter dairy-free, you should omit regular butter and instead use either olive oil or vegan butter. The soup will remain delicious and comforting regardless.
