Curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas and lemon

Curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas, and lemon combines the earthy flavors of lentils and chickpeas with bright curry and lemon notes. This nourishing soup is simmered to perfection, making it a wholesome choice for a comforting meal.

17 Feb 2026
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

1 carrot
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cup lentils
2 tbsp curry powder
1 onion
4.25 cups water
2 stalks onion
1 lemon
2 tbsp butter
16 oz chickpeas
2 garlic cloves
3 tbsp olive oil
Curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas and lemon

Curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas, and lemon is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings together the rich flavors of curry powder, the earthy tone of lentils, and the zesty brightness of lemon. This filling soup is perfect for cold days or anytime you crave a warm, healthy meal. Packed with protein from chickpeas and lentils, and nutrient-rich vegetables, it's a wholesome option for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Dice the carrot.
- Chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the green onions.
- Zest and juice the lemon.
2. Heat Olive Oil:
- In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add Curry Powder:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of curry powder and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to become aromatic.
5. Combine Vegetables and Lentils:
- Add the diced carrot, green onions, and rinsed lentils to the pot.
- Pour in the 4.25 cups of water and stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender.
7. Add Chickpeas:
- Stir in the drained and rinsed chickpeas.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat the chickpeas through.
8. Finish with Lemon and Butter:
- Add in the lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Stir until the butter is melted and well incorporated.
9. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
10. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with additional green onions or a wedge of lemon if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas, and lemon!

This curried lentil soup offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy your palate. The combination of aromatic spices, tender lentils, and the tangy hint of lemon makes it a crowd-pleaser. Not only is it delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your regular meal rotation. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete, balanced meal.

Curried lentil soup with carrots, chickpeas and lemon FAQ:

What is the cooking time for this curried lentil soup?

The soup requires approximately 20-25 minutes to simmer until the lentils and carrots are tender, followed by an additional 10 minutes after adding the chickpeas. Overall, it takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.

How should I store leftover curried lentil soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months, allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I substitute the lentils in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lentils with split peas or black beans, but adjust the cooking times accordingly, as they may require different cooking durations. Red lentils cook faster than green or brown lentils.

What can I use instead of curry powder?

If you don't have curry powder, you can create a substitute with a combination of ground turmeric, cumin, and coriander, or use a premade curry blend that suits your taste preference.

How can I tell if the lentils and carrots are done cooking?

Lentils should be tender but not mushy, while carrots should be cooked through yet retain some texture. You can taste them for doneness; they should be soft and easily mashable with a fork.

Tips:

- Rinse the lentils thoroughly before adding them to the soup to remove any potential debris and reduce cooking time.

- Sauté the onions, garlic, and curry powder in olive oil and butter to enhance the flavors before adding the water and other ingredients.

- Cut the carrot, onions, and garlic into uniform small pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. You can also add some lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick.

- Allow the soup to simmer gently to fully develop the flavors. Cooking it on low heat for a longer time can make it even more delicious.

- If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 240kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 5.00g
Fat 13g

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