Take-Out Lentil Soup With Garlic and Cumin Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin Recipe is just the thing to warm you up from the inside out. Lentil soup is a classic dish that never goes out of style, and with the addition of garlic and cumin, this recipe takes the flavor to new heights.

Not only is this lentil soup recipe delicious, but it’s also easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, get ready to take your taste buds on a journey with this garlic cumin lentil soup recipe that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty and comforting soup to warm you up on a chilly day? Look no further than this take-out lentil soup with garlic and cumin recipe! This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it the perfect addition to your meal rotation.

Firstly, this soup is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can have a delicious pot of soup on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or herbs you may have in your fridge.

Secondly, the combination of garlic and cumin in this soup creates a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. The earthy cumin pairs perfectly with the pungent garlic to create an aromatic base for the soup. And the addition of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and tangy note to the dish.

Thirdly, lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this soup a satisfying and healthy meal option. Lentils are also low in fat and calories, making them a great choice for anyone watching their weight.

Finally, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can switch up the type of lentils you use to create different variations of the soup. Red lentils work well for a smoother soup, while brown or green lentils will create a heartier texture. You can also add in other ingredients like coconut milk or fresh herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

In conclusion, there are countless reasons to love this take-out lentil soup with garlic and cumin recipe. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor and nutrients, and incredibly versatile. Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredient List

Let’s start by gathering all the ingredients we need for this delicious Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin Recipe. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a handful of simple and affordable ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 cup dried lentils (red or brown lentils work well)
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)

You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store or market. If you can’t find dried lentils, you can use canned lentils instead. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before using.

The Recipe How-To

Now, let’s dive into the recipe how-to for this delicious Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin. This recipe is super easy and comes together in just under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 cup red lentils
4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs, like cilantro, parsley, or mint, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add 1 tbsp ground cumin to the saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to release the cumin’s flavor and aroma.
Add 1 cup of red lentils to the saucepan, followed by 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
Once the lentils are cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two. Then, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend it in batches.
Add 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Serve the lentil soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint, if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

Lemony Lentil Soup: For a lemony twist, add the juice of one whole lemon to the soup, along with the lemon zest.
Indian Lentil Soup: Add a teaspoon of garam masala and a teaspoon of ground coriander to the soup for an Indian-inspired flavor.
Moroccan Lentil Soup: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a teaspoon of ground coriander to the soup for a Moroccan-inspired flavor.
Dal Soup: Use brown lentils instead of red lentils, and add a teaspoon of ground turmeric to the soup for a traditional Indian dal flavor.
Vegan Lentil Soup: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make this recipe vegan.
**Coconut Lentil Curry

Substitutions and Variations

Lentil soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try:

– Lentils: This recipe calls for red lentils, but you can use brown, green, or split lentils if you prefer. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of lentil you use.

– Spices: Cumin and garlic give this soup its flavor, but you can experiment with other spices such as coriander, garam masala, or turmeric to create different flavor profiles. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

– Broth: This recipe calls for chicken or vegetable broth, but you can use any type of broth or stock that you have on hand. You can also use water and bouillon cubes if you don’t have any broth.

– Coconut milk: For a creamier soup, you can substitute some or all of the broth with coconut milk. This will give the soup a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices.

– Tomato paste: If you don’t have any tomato paste, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the lentils and broth.

– Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor to the soup, but you can also use lime juice or vinegar if you don’t have any lemons on hand.

– Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes, to make it heartier and more nutritious. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the lentils and broth.

– Curry: For a more Indian-inspired lentil soup, you can add curry powder or paste to the soup. This will give it a spicy and aromatic flavor that pairs well with the lentils.

– Moroccan: For a more Moroccan-inspired lentil soup, you can add some ras el hanout spice blend or harissa paste to the soup. This will give it a slightly smoky and spicy flavor that pairs well with the lentils.

– Vegan: To make this soup vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the butter or use a vegan substitute. You can also add some nutritional yeast for added flavor and nutrition.

With these substitutions and variations, you can customize this lentil soup recipe to your liking and create a dish that is truly your own.

Serving and Pairing

This lentil soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or paired with other dishes to make a heartier meal. Here are some ideas on how to serve and pair this soup:

– Bread: This soup goes well with crusty bread or garlic bread. You can also serve it with pita bread or naan bread.

– Salad: Pairing this soup with a side salad is a great way to add some freshness to your meal. You can make a simple green salad with lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes, or a more elaborate salad with mixed greens, roasted vegetables, and nuts.

– Sandwich: You can turn this soup into a full meal by serving it with a sandwich. A grilled cheese sandwich or a veggie sandwich would be a perfect complement to the soup.

– Rice: Another way to make this soup more filling is to serve it with rice. You can make plain rice or add some spices like cumin or coriander to make it more flavorful.

– Toppings: You can also add some toppings to the soup to make it more interesting. Some options include chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.

– Pairing: This soup pairs well with a variety of dishes from different cuisines. For example, you can serve it with Indian dishes like samosas or pakoras, Moroccan dishes like couscous or tagine, or Mexican dishes like quesadillas or tacos.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair this soup, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The hearty lentils and flavorful garlic and cumin make it a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of the year.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

This lentil soup recipe is perfect for meal prepping and making ahead of time. You can easily store it in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, make sure to do so on low heat to prevent the soup from scorching.

To make ahead of time, simply prepare the soup as directed and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the fridge or freezer until ready to eat.

When ready to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to thin out the soup if it has thickened during storage. If reheating in the microwave, make sure to cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent splatters.

This soup also pairs well with a variety of toppings such as fresh herbs, a dollop of yogurt, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. To add even more flavor to your leftovers, try adding a sprinkle of garam masala or a drizzle of coconut milk.

With its easy make-ahead and storing options, this garlic and cumin lentil soup is the perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights or a quick lunch on the go.

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making lentil soup, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the perfect flavor and texture. Here are some tips for making the best Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin Recipe:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: Sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the lentils and other ingredients helps to bring out their flavors and aromas. Be sure to let them cook until they are translucent and fragrant.

2. Use good quality lentils: The quality of the lentils you use will have a big impact on the overall flavor of the soup. Be sure to use high-quality dried lentils that are fresh and flavorful.

3. Add fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like coriander or parsley at the end of cooking can help to brighten up the flavors of the soup and add a fresh, herbaceous note.

4. Use vegetable or chicken stock: Using a good quality vegetable or chicken stock can add depth and complexity to the flavor of the soup. Avoid using water as it can make the soup taste bland.

5. Don’t overcook the lentils: Overcooking the lentils can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor. Be sure to cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.

6. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can help to bring out the flavors of the soup.

7. Let the soup rest: Letting the soup rest for a few minutes before serving can help the flavors to meld together and create a more cohesive, delicious dish.

By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin Recipe that is flavorful, satisfying, and easy to make.

FAQ

Now that you know how to make this delicious Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin recipe, you might have some questions on how to customize it to your liking or how to troubleshoot any issues that might arise during the cooking process. In this section, we will answer some frequently asked questions about this recipe to help you achieve the best results possible. So let’s get started!

What spices go well with lentils?

When it comes to seasoning my dishes, I have a go-to combination that never fails to impress. I usually add a dash of ginger, garlic, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, and salt. These spices work together to create a delicious and flavorful meal. While the recipe is simple, the combination of these spices adds a depth and complexity that will leave your taste buds wanting more. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to spice things up, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix for some extra heat.

How do you spruce up lentil soup?

As a chef, I suggest adding some extra flavors and textures to your dishes. You can achieve this by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few cracks of pepper to give your food a spicy kick. A drizzle of oil can also enhance the taste and aroma of your dish. You can also try adding a chiffonade of basil or other fresh herbs to add a burst of freshness.

To add a creamy touch to your dishes, a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can do the trick. If you want to add some crunch, try adding a handful of oyster crackers or crumbled saltines. For a more complex flavor, sprinkle some seeds, chopped nuts, or grated salty cheese like parmesan on top of your dish.

By incorporating these simple ingredients, you can elevate your dishes to the next level and impress your guests with your culinary skills. So don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own twist to traditional recipes!

How do you add flavor to lentils?

As a chef, I highly recommend adding depth and richness to your lentil dishes by simmering them in either chicken or vegetable broth. This will not only infuse the lentils with flavor, but also give them a tender and creamy texture that is sure to please your palate. When prepping your lentils, be sure to avoid adding salt or acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice. Lentils are slow cooking and may become tough if exposed to these ingredients too early in the cooking process. Instead, focus on adding aromatics such as onions and garlic, fresh herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor of the lentils. Trust me, this will take your lentil dishes to the next level!

Why is my lentil soup bland?

Lentils are versatile legumes that can absorb any flavor you give them. However, if you don’t add any seasoning or spices, they can taste quite dull. To enhance their taste, you can infuse them with aromatics by adding them to the cooking water, or using chicken or vegetable stock instead of plain water.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves healthy and flavorful soups. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup in no time. The lentils and spices in this recipe are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients and health benefits.

Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a meatless meal option, this lentil soup recipe is perfect for you. You can also customize this recipe to your liking by adding your favorite veggies or using different types of lentils. The possibilities are endless!

Lastly, don’t forget to pair this soup with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. And if you have any leftovers, you can store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy meal later on.

So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and try out this delicious Take-Out Lentil Soup with Garlic and Cumin recipe today!