Hearty Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup: A Warm, Flavourful
- Steve Holloway
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Introduction:
Looking for a comforting yet invigorating bowl to brighten up your day? This Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup is the perfect blend of warmth, bold flavours, and wholesome goodness. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a fiery kick of spices, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you're craving a hearty lunch or a nourishing dinner, this vibrant dish will leave you feeling cosy and satisfied. Let’s dive into the recipe for a bowl of pure comfort with a bit of a spicy twist!
Cuisine -Anglo Indian - Soup
- Serves 4
Table of contents
Cooking times,
This easy recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick yet nourishing meal. All you need is a large saucepan, and a hand blender if you prefer a smoother texture. The spice level is medium, but you can easily adjust it to suit your taste. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, it’s ideal for cooks of all levels.
Nutritional values for
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup, based on four servings. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities used.
Estimated Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Energy: 180 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- of which sugars: 8g
- Fat: 3g
- of which saturates: 0.5g
- Fibre: 7g
- Salt: 1.3g
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- High in fibre thanks to lentils and vegetables
- Low in fat and saturates
- Provides plant-based protein
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables and apple
A little History
Lentil soup has been enjoyed for thousands of years and is one of the oldest known dishes in the world. Lentils, cultivated since ancient times in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, have been a staple food thanks to their hearty texture, rich protein content, and affordability. Tomato-based soups became popular much later, after the tomato’s introduction to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century. Combining lentils with tomatoes creates a nourishing, flavourful soup enjoyed in many cultures, from Indian dals to Mediterranean stews. The addition of warming spices and fresh ingredients like ginger and chilli reflects more modern, global influences—blending traditional comfort with a contemporary twist. Today, spicy tomato and lentil soup is celebrated for its versatility, vibrant colour, and satisfying taste, making it a favourite in home kitchens around the world.
Fun Fact
"Did you know? Lentils are one of the earliest foods ever cultivated by humans, dating back over 9,000 years—and they’re still a delicious and nutritious staple today!"
Recipe for Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic cloves, crushed
1 inch piece of ginger grated
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stick, diced
1 red chilli, de seeded and finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon chilli flakes)
150g (¾ cup) red lentils, rinsed
400g tin chopped tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato purée
1 litre (4 cups) vegetable stock
1 apple coarsely chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped, to serve
Lemon wedges, to serve
Method
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook gently for 5–6 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Chilli:
Stir in the crushed garlic, grated ginger, and red chilli (or chilli flakes). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine Core Ingredients:
Add the chopped apple, rinsed red lentils, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, and vegetable stock to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are soft.
5. Blend (Optional):
For a smoother soup, use a hand blender to blend the soup to your preferred consistency. Alternatively, leave it chunky for more texture.
6. Season and Serve:
Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh coriander or parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over, personally like a drizzle of olive oil.
Here are five cooks tips for this recipe
1. Rinse Lentils Thoroughly
Before adding the lentils, rinse them well under cold running water to remove any dust or debris. This also helps to improve the soup’s texture and prevent cloudiness.
2. Adjust the Spice Level
Tailor the heat to your preference. If you prefer a milder soup, use half a chilli or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add more chilli or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Use a Sweet Apple for Balance
A sweeter variety of apple, such as Gala or Fuji, will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes and add a subtle depth of flavour to your soup.
4. Make Ahead for Better Flavour
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavours have more time to meld. Make a batch ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze portions for a quick meal later.
5. Finish with Fresh Lemon
Squeezing lemon juice over each serving just before eating brightens the soup and enhances all the flavours. Don’t skip this step—it makes a noticeable difference!
Pairs well with:
Frequently asked questions
Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
Red lentils cook quickly and break down to create a creamy texture, but you can use green or brown lentils if you prefer a chunkier soup. Just be aware they’ll take a little longer to cook and will give a slightly different texture.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes very well! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the hob.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavours develop even more if made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
How can I make this soup less spicy?
For a milder soup, simply reduce the amount of chilli or leave it out altogether. You can also add a swirl of yoghurt when serving to mellow the heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable stock, this soup is both gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Print recipe in plain format
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly evening or looking for a nourishing dish packed with bold flavours, this Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. Simple to prepare yet rich in taste and goodness, it’s a testament to how wholesome ingredients can create something truly magical. From our kitchen to yours, thank you for cooking with Stevie’s Curry Magic—where every recipe is made with a sprinkle of love and a dash of spice. Enjoy!
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Cheers Steve.
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