Lentil soup with garlic, turmeric and lemon

This Lentil Soup with Garlic, Turmeric, and Lemon combines hearty lentils with aromatic garlic and spices, creating a comforting dish. The addition of fresh lemon juice and parsley adds a bright touch, perfect for any season.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion
4 garlic cloves
1.50 cups lentils
8 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp turmeric powder
1.50 tsp ground cumin
3 tsp lemon juice
4 tbsp fresh parsley
Lentil soup with garlic, turmeric and lemon

This delicious and nutritious Lentil Soup with Garlic, Turmeric, and Lemon is a perfect blend of rich flavors and healthful ingredients. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, while the garlic and turmeric offer anti-inflammatory benefits. The fresh lemon juice and parsley add a refreshing tang, making this soup an ideal comfort food for any season.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop half an onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Rinse and drain the dried lentils.
2. Sauté the Base:
- Heat 1/3 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
- Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, turmeric powder, and ground cumin.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
5. Final Touches:
- Stir in 3 teaspoons of lemon juice.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
6. Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish each bowl with a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.

This comforting and hearty Lentil Soup with Garlic, Turmeric, and Lemon is not only easy to prepare but also rich in nutrients. The warmth from the turmeric and the zestiness from the lemon juice make it a delightful bowl of goodness. Garnish with some fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious creation!

Lentil soup with garlic, turmeric and lemon FAQ:

What is the cooking time for this lentil soup?

The total cooking time for the lentil soup is about 30-35 minutes. This includes approximately 5 minutes for sautéing the onion and garlic and 25-30 minutes for simmering the lentils until tender.

How should I store leftover lentil soup?

Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I substitute ingredients in this lentil soup recipe?

Yes, you can substitute green or black lentils for the standard lentils used in this recipe. Alternatively, vegetable broth can be swapped with water, but this may alter the taste. Additionally, if you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, though it may lack some flavor.

How do I know when the lentils are done cooking?

Lentils are done cooking when they are tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes of simmering. You can taste a few lentils to check for desired tenderness.

Is this lentil soup gluten-free?

Yes, this lentil soup is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing grains. Always check your vegetable broth for gluten-free labeling to ensure it is safe.

Tips:

- Rinse lentils thoroughly: Before adding the lentils to the soup, rinse them under cold water to remove any debris or dirt. This helps in reducing cooking time and ensures a cleaner taste.

- Sauté the garlic and onion first: Sautéing the garlic and onion in olive oil before adding other ingredients can enhance the depth of flavor in the soup. Make sure to cook them until they are soft and fragrant.

- Use high-quality broth: Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth, as it forms the base of your soup. A good broth can elevate the overall taste of the dish.

- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to adjust the amounts of turmeric and cumin to suit your palate. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

- Add lemon juice at the end: To retain its bright and fresh flavor, add the lemon juice towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents it from becoming too bitter.

- Let the soup rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together even better. It often tastes even better the next day!

- Garnish generously: Don't skip the fresh parsley as a garnish. It not only adds a pop of color but also complements the richness of the soup with its fresh flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 200kcal
Protein 13g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 3.60g
Fat 1.69g

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