Welcome to our delicious and nutritious Red Lentil, Carrot, Apple, and Sweet Potato Soup recipe! This vibrant and hearty soup is perfect for cozy evenings, providing a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your soul. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is not only tasty but also incredibly healthy. The combination of red lentils, carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes creates a balanced and satisfying meal that is both sweet and savory. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delightful soup!
Ingredients for Red Lentil, Carrot, Apple, and Sweet Potato Soup
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to Make Red Lentil, Carrot, Apple, and Sweet Potato Soup
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Rinse and drain the red lentils. Peel and chop the carrots, sweet potato, and apple. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors.
- Add the Vegetables and Lentils: Add the chopped carrots, sweet potato, apple, and rinsed red lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes: Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest chunky. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious with hot liquids in a blender.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
- Red Lentils: Red lentils are a staple in many kitchens due to their quick cooking time and nutritional benefits. They are high in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Unlike other types of lentils, red lentils tend to break down and become mushy when cooked, making them perfect for soups and stews. Their slightly sweet and nutty flavor complements a variety of ingredients, adding both taste and texture to this soup.
- Carrots: Carrots are a versatile vegetable rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They add a natural sweetness to the soup and pair well with the other ingredients. Carrots also contribute to the vibrant color of the soup, making it visually appealing.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Their natural sweetness and creamy texture enhance the soup, making it more filling and satisfying. Sweet potatoes are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, adding a health boost to this dish.
- Apples: Apples bring a unique twist to this soup with their subtle sweetness and tartness. They are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. The addition of apples balances the flavors of the soup, creating a delightful contrast with the savory spices and vegetables.
- Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric, Cinnamon, Nutmeg): The blend of spices used in this soup adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Cumin and coriander provide a warm, earthy base, while turmeric adds a vibrant color and anti-inflammatory benefits. Cinnamon and nutmeg offer a hint of sweetness and warmth, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
