Description

Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils is a comforting and vibrant dish that warms both body and soul. This nutritious soup combines sweet carrots, creamy red lentils, and a touch of chili for an irresistible flavor explosion. Perfect for chilly evenings or impressing guests, it’s quick to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or main course. Enjoy this heartwarming meal that not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups fresh carrots, chopped (about 4 medium)
1 cup red lentils, rinsed
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, heat sesame oil and sauté diced onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and chili flakes; stir until fragrant.
Stir in chopped carrots and cook for about five minutes until slightly softened.
Add rinsed red lentils along with vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender, stirring occasionally.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth (or transfer in batches to a regular blender).
Serve warm in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds as desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 410mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - For added sweetness, consider roasting the carrots before adding them to the soup.- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.- To enhance flavor further, top with chopped peanuts or a squeeze of lime juice.