Can you use different types of lentils in this soup?

Different types of lentils cook differently, so we'd really recommend red lentils in this case for the right texture. They're just so good!

How can I make this soup in the Instant Pot?

Sauté your carrots, celery, and onions in the Instant Pot with a little bit of olive oil. Add in your garlic and spices and cook for an additional minute or two. Add in the broth and lentils and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes with a quick release when the soup finishes. Stir in the coconut milk, chopped spinach, salt, and lemon juice to finish.

How can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, red lentils, and vegetable broth to a slow cooker, and cook on high for 4 hours. Stir in the coconut milk, chopped spinach, salt, and lemon juice to finish.

What other proteins could I add to this lentil soup?

Chicken would be delicious! Just cook it in with everything else and then shred. And beans or crispy tofu bits would be delicious to keep things vegan-friendly!

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Just freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe

Description

This Smoky Lentil Soup is ultra creamy and totally vegan! Packed to the brim with veggies, red lentils, coconut milk, and lots of spices, it’s a total win for the coziest months of the year!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
half of an onion, minced
2 carrots, peeled and minced
2 stalks celery, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 1/2 cups red lentils, rinsed
5 cups vegetable broth
one 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
1–2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
2 teaspoons kosher salt (more or less to taste)
juice of one lemon
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons honey to taste (optional)

For serving (optional):

6 pieces of flatbread, naan, or crispy socca for dipping

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-10 minutes.
Add the garlic, spices, and lentils. Stir to combine and let it stay on the heat for just a minute to get the garlic smelling really good.
Add the broth. Bring to a simmer; place lid partially on the pot and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice during cooking time.
Add coconut milk, spinach, salt, lemon juice, and season to taste. (I like a little drizzle of honey, and a couple shakes of garlic powder, onion powder, and cranks of freshly ground black pepper.)
Serve with socca or some other flatbread for dipping and dunking. Wholesome, colorful, and SO yummy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: lentil soup, vegan soup, red lentil soup