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Turmeric Lentil Vegetable Soup

This comforting soup combines earthy turmeric, hearty lentils, and colorful vegetables simmered to tender perfection. The slow cooking process develops deep flavors, resulting in a vibrant, slightly thickened broth with soft vegetables and creamy lentils. It’s a nourishing, mindful dish that’s perfect for a quick, soothing meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 carrot carrot sliced thin
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric or fresh turmeric, grated
  • 0.5 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 cup rinsed dried lentils
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 zucchini zucchini chopped, added late
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice, optional
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, until it shimmers and begins to smell slightly nutty.
  2. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrot, and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release a sweet aroma.
  3. Stir in the ground turmeric and cumin, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant and the spices turn a deeper color.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
  6. In the last 5 minutes, add the chopped zucchini and stir. Continue cooking until the zucchini is tender and slightly brightened in color.
  7. Remove the pot from heat, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness, if desired.
  8. Let the soup sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if you like.

Notes

For extra creaminess, mash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon before serving. Feel free to add greens like kale or spinach in the last few minutes for extra nutrition.