Simple Homemade Spicy Lentil and Coconut Soup

Ingredients

• •1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 medium onion, finely chopped
• •2 garlic cloves, minced
• •1 inch piece of ginger, grated
• •1 tablespoon curry powder
• •1 teaspoon ground cumin
• •1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• •1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• •4 cups vegetable broth
• •1 medium carrot, diced
• •1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• •Salt, to taste
• •Juice of 1 lime
• •Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• •Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the curry powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Stir and cook for another minute to toast the spices.

5. 5

   Add the rinsed red lentils, diced carrot, and red bell pepper to the pot.

6. 6

   Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Stir to combine.

7. 7

   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.

8. 8

   Season with salt to taste, then stir in the lime juice for a tangy finish.

9. 9

   Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional crusty bread on the side.