How to Make Indian Soup with Green Lentils and Cumin
Indian soup is a delightful and wholesome dish, perfect for those looking to enjoy nutritious and flavorful meals. One popular variant utilizes green lentils and cumin, which not only adds depth to the flavor but also packs in protein and dietary fiber. Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for making Indian soup with green lentils and cumin.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Lentils
Start by rinsing the green lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices
Add the cumin seeds, ground cumin, and turmeric powder to the pot. Stir well for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Lentils
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Then, stir in the rinsed green lentils, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture.
Step 5: Pour in Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once the lentils are cooked through, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup slightly using an immersion blender or leave it as is for a chunkier version. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Indian soup pairs wonderfully with a side of warm naan, rice, or even a fresh salad. For added flavor, consider a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt on top.
Health Benefits
Green lentils are a great source of protein, making this soup ideal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The added spices such as cumin not only enhance the flavor but also offer various health benefits, including improved digestion and anti-inflammatory properties.
Enjoy this comforting Indian soup with green lentils and cumin as part of a balanced diet. It's not only healthy but also full of rich flavors that will warm you from the inside out!