Vegan Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Vegan Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Creamy coconut milk, tender lentils, and aromatic spices come together to create a hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving something cozy yet vibrant.

It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Rich and Creamy: Coconut milk gives the soup a luscious texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of warm spices, fresh ginger, and garlic create a rich and aromatic broth.
• Nutritious: Lentils are high in protein and fiber, making this soup a wholesome and filling meal.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better as leftovers and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Soup:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Red chili flakes
• A drizzle of coconut cream

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma.

Step 2: Build the Soup

1. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced sweet potato and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils and sweet potato are tender.

Step 3: Add Greens and Lime

1. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
2. Add the lime juice and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the spices as needed for your desired flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a drizzle of coconut cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
2. Serve with warm naan, crusty bread, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: This helps remove excess starch and ensures the soup has a clean flavor.
• Use Fresh Spices: High-quality, fresh spices will make a noticeable difference in the soup’s aroma and taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired texture.
• Make It Your Own: Add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the soup even heartier.
• Balance the Flavors: If the soup feels too spicy, add a touch of coconut sugar or maple syrup to balance the heat.

Why This Soup is a Must-Try

This Vegan Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is a symphony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing.

The creamy coconut milk complements the earthiness of the lentils, while the spices add depth and warmth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a starter for a festive feast.