Lentils have been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. They’re hearty, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, making them the perfect base for a wide variety of dishes. One such dish that truly shines is Amy’s Golden Lentil Soup-a soul-soothing, flavor-packed meal that’s as comforting as it is nourishing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a breeze to follow, and it will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of golden spices and simmering vegetables.
This soup isn’t just filling-it’s a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and a myriad of vitamins and minerals. If you’ve ever been in need of a cozy bowl of comfort food that’s both healthy and hearty, this golden lentil soup is the answer. So, let’s dive into the details of how to make this magical soup!
Amy’s Golden Lentil Soup Recipe
This particular recipe combines the earthy, nutty flavor of lentils with the warmth of turmeric, cumin, and garlic, creating a deeply satisfying dish. The soup is golden in color, owing to the turmeric, and it is enriched by the addition of carrots, onions, and fresh cilantro. The end result is a smooth, flavorful soup with a touch of spice that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients Needed
To make Amy’s Golden Lentil Soup, you’ll need the following:
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1 Cup Dried Yellow Lentils
Yellow lentils (also called "golden lentils") are the star of the show here. They cook quickly, break down into a creamy texture, and have a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in the soup.
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1 Medium Onion, Chopped
Onions form the base of many soups, providing a savory depth of flavor. They add both sweetness and umami to the dish.
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2 Medium Carrots, Diced
Carrots bring a natural sweetness and a slight crunch to the soup. They also add a vibrant color that enhances the golden theme of the dish.
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3 Garlic Cloves, Minced
Garlic is the aromatic foundation of the soup. It releases its bold, earthy flavor as it cooks, making the soup fragrant and flavorful.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
This is the key ingredient that gives the soup its golden color and adds a warm, peppery flavor. Turmeric is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
Cumin adds a smoky, earthy tone to the soup, balancing out the heat from the turmeric. It gives the soup an authentic, warm, and savory flavor profile.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
Coriander brings a citrusy, slightly sweet taste, which brightens the soup and complements the earthy flavors of the cumin and turmeric.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Ginger
Ginger gives a bit of a zesty kick to the soup, and like turmeric, it has a number of health benefits, including aiding digestion.
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1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
Olive oil helps sauté the onions and garlic, adding richness and helping to release the flavors of the spices.
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4 Cups Vegetable Broth
The broth is the liquid foundation of the soup, providing depth and savory flavor. You can also use chicken broth for a non-vegan version.
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Salt And Pepper To Taste
These simple seasonings help bring out all the flavors of the dish.
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Fresh Cilantro For Garnish
Cilantro adds a burst of freshness and brightness, making the soup feel light and refreshing.
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Lemon Wedges For Serving
A squeeze of lemon just before eating can elevate the soup with a refreshing tang that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the spices.
Cooking Instructions
Making this golden lentil soup is super easy and requires minimal effort. Here’s how you do it:
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Prepare The Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion, dicing the carrots, and mincing the garlic. Set everything aside so you can work quickly once the cooking begins.
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Sauté The Vegetables
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Add The Spices
Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger, letting the spices toast for about a minute. This helps them release their essential oils and deepen their flavor.
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Add The Lentils And Broth
Add the dried yellow lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir everything to combine, making sure the lentils are well distributed.
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Simmer The Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have started to break down.
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Blend For Smoothness
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth or leave it a bit chunky, depending on your preference.
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Season And Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
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Lentils
Lentils are one of the oldest cultivated crops and are a staple in many cuisines. They’re a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Yellow lentils, in particular, are mild in flavor and cook quickly compared to other types, making them ideal for soups.
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Turmeric
The bright yellow spice, turmeric, is not only what makes this soup golden but also a powerhouse of health benefits. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, as well as improve brain function. The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been studied for its potential to combat arthritis, depression, and even cancer.
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Cumin & Coriander
Both cumin and coriander are aromatic spices that provide depth and warmth to dishes. Cumin has a deep, smoky flavor, while coriander adds a subtle citrusy sweetness. Together, they create a balance that makes this soup taste vibrant yet comforting.
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Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. It also contains antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and promote overall wellness.
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Lemon
Fresh lemon juice adds a touch of acidity to the soup, cutting through the richness of the lentils and spices. It also provides a boost of vitamin C, supporting immune health.
Expert Tips
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Use An Immersion Blender
An immersion blender is a game-changer when making soups. It allows you to blend the soup right in the pot without transferring it to a blender, making cleanup easier.
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Adjust The Consistency
If you prefer a thicker soup, cook it longer to allow the lentils to break down more. If you want it more brothy, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
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Add Greens
For added nutrition, consider adding a handful of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard toward the end of cooking. The greens will wilt quickly and add a nice touch of color and extra vitamins to the soup.
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Top With Yogurt
For extra creaminess and a tangy contrast, you can serve the soup with a dollop of plain yogurt or a swirl of coconut milk.
Recipe Variations
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Spicy Version
If you like your soup with a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper when you add the spices.
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Meat Lover’s Version
Add cooked chicken or turkey for a non-vegetarian option. Simply shred the meat and stir it in at the end of cooking.
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Coconut Milk Twist
For a creamier, more tropical flavor, replace some or all of the vegetable broth with coconut milk. This adds a velvety richness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
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Add Potatoes
For extra heartiness, you can throw in a couple of diced potatoes along with the carrots. The potatoes will soak up the flavors and make the soup even more filling.
Final Words
Amy’s Golden Lentil Soup is a recipe that you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. It’s not only simple to make, but it’s also packed with flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or as a hearty lunch, this soup will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.