Soup made with lentils, coconut, celery, and onions.

Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup

This warm and flavorful Coconut Lentil Soup is a comforting meal packed with nutritious lentils, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant spices. It’s naturally vegan, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Add fresh herbs and a touch of lime for a vibrant finish!

Ingredients

For the Soup (Serves 4):

• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 (400 ml/14 oz) can coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lime juice (optional, for tanginess)

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges (optional)
• Red pepper flakes or fresh chili (optional, for spiciness)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or coconut oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

Step 2: Add Spices and Lentils

1. Stir in the turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the spices release their fragrance.
2. Add the rinsed lentils and stir to coat them in the spice mixture.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth (or water). Stir well to combine.
2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

• For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some lentils and vegetables whole for texture.
• Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup in a blender until smooth and return it to the pot.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice as desired.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and chili flakes or chopped chili for added heat, if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Add Veggies: Boost the texture and nutrition with additional vegetables like carrots, spinach, or kale.
• Spice It Up: For extra heat, stir in cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced chili.
• Make It Creamier: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, silkier soup.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Nutritious: Packed with protein-rich lentils and fiber-filled veggies.
• Comforting: Warm spices and creamy coconut milk create a cozy dish.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: A wholesome meal suitable for various diets.