A Historical Overview of Spiced Carrot & Lentil Soup
Carrots and lentils have been staples across different cuisines for centuries. Lentils, one of the oldest cultivated legumes, were eaten as early as 8,000 BC in the Middle East. Carrots, once purple and yellow, became the familiar orange root vegetable in 17th-century Europe. Combined, they make a nutritious and hearty pairing. Spiced versions of carrot and lentil soup are often influenced by Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, where warming spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric elevate humble ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful dish. Today, this soup remains a go-to comfort food worldwide—healthy, filling, and budget-friendly.
Spiced Carrot & Lentil Soup – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Spiced Carrot & Lentil Soup is cozy, vibrant, and nourishing. Packed with protein-rich lentils, sweet carrots, and warming spices, it’s a bowl of comfort perfect for chilly days. Whether you’re preparing a healthy weeknight meal or looking for a make-ahead lunch, this soup delivers both flavor and nutrition. The natural sweetness of carrots combined with earthy lentils and bold spices makes it both satisfying and wholesome—a true comfort classic.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp ground coriander
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½ tsp turmeric
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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5 large carrots, peeled and chopped
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1 cup red or green lentils (rinsed)
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6 cups vegetable broth
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
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Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
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Add carrots and lentils, stirring to coat in spices.
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Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 25–30 minutes until carrots and lentils are tender.
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Blend with an immersion blender until smooth (or leave slightly chunky).
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Stir in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Notes
Use coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Swap red lentils with green or brown, adjusting cook time
Add chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Common Questions
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients except lemon juice to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Blend before serving and stir in lemon juice.
2. Do I have to blend the soup?
Not at all. You can leave it chunky if you prefer a rustic texture, or blend just half for a creamy yet hearty version.
3. Are lentils healthy?
Absolutely! Lentils are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and essential nutrients. They make this soup filling and perfect for vegetarian or vegan diets.
