Description
A hearty and flavorful Caramelized Onion Red Lentil Soup combining the sweetness of caramelized onions with smoky spices and tender red lentils, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1.5 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Add spices and garlic: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook carrots: Add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add lentils and liquids: Add the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Blend if desired: If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. Otherwise, leave it chunky.
- Season and finish: Stir in the salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, blend the soup partially or fully with an immersion blender.
- Adjust spices according to taste preference for heat or smokiness.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with water but will affect the richness of flavor.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Optional garnishes like a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil add extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keywords: caramelized onion soup, red lentil soup, vegan lentil soup, healthy soup, Middle Eastern soup, lentil recipes, easy soup recipe
