Indulge in the comforting warmth of this slow cooker curried lentil soup - a nutritious and flavorful blend of lentils, aromatic spices, and vegetables that will surely brighten your mealtime. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it is also a great way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into your diet.
While most of the ingredients for this soup are pantry staples, two spices that you may need to pick up are Madras curry powder and garam masala. Both are integral to Indian cooking and lend a deep, complex flavor to the dish. Madras curry powder is a blend of spices including turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder. Garam masala, on the other hand, is a warming mix of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
Garlic: An essential flavor base in many dishes, it gives the soup a robust flavor.
Carrots: Adds sweetness and color to the soup and is a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Onion: Provides a savory depth to the flavor profile of the soup.
Chicken stock: The liquid base of the soup, can be replaced with vegetable stock for a vegan version.
Lentils: A high protein legume that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked, perfect for soups.
Madras curry powder: A spice blend that adds a warm and earthy flavor to the soup.
Garam masala: A blend of ground spices used extensively in Indian cuisine for its warming and aromatic properties.
Ground cumin: Brings a nutty and earthy flavor to the dish.
Bay leaves: Adds a subtle bitterness that balances the flavors of the soup.
Baby spinach: Adds a fresh, green element and is packed with nutrients.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the soup with its acidity and is a great source of vitamin C.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the other flavors of the soup.
Cilantro leaves: Provides a refreshing and citrusy note, making it a perfect garnish for the soup.
One reader, Aprilette Horner says:
This slow cooker curried lentil soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the prep is a breeze. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. It's a definite winner for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
How to chop garlic, carrots, and onion: Finely chop the garlic cloves, carrots, and white onion to ensure they cook evenly and release their flavors into the soup.
How to cook lentils in a slow cooker: When cooking lentils in a slow cooker, it's important to ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid to cook evenly and become tender.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
How to garnish with cilantro: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro leaves generously over the soup just before serving to add a fresh, aromatic flavor.
How To Make Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
A simple and tasty lentil soup recipe with a bit of heat from the curry spices and a hearty feel from the lentils slowly cooking away from the vegetables.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4clovesgarlicpeeled and minced
- 2carrotslarge, peeled and diced
- 1white onionmedium, peeled and diced
- 6cupschicken stock(or vegetable stock)
- 1½cupsgreen or brown lentilsuncooked, rinsed and picked over
- 1tbspMadras curry powder
- 1tspgaram masala
- 1tspground cumin
- 2bay leaves
- 2cupsbaby spinachroughly-chopped
- 3tbsplemon juiceplus extra lemon slices for serving
- saltto taste
- pepperto taste
- cilantro leaveschopped fresh (for topping)
Instructions
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Add the garlic, carrots, onion, stock, lentils, curry powder, cumin, and bay leaves to the bowl of a 4-quart or 6-quart slow cooker, and stir to combine.
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Cook on High for 4 to 5 hours or on Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the lentils are tender.
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Stir in the baby spinach and lemon juice until combined.
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Taste, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve warm, garnished with lots of chopped cilantro and extra lemon slices, if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 215.26kcal
- Fat: 2.87g
- Saturated Fat: 0.69g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.24g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.65g
- Carbohydrates: 34.49g
- Fiber: 5.45g
- Sugar: 5.18g
- Protein: 14.22g
- Cholesterol: 5.40mg
- Sodium: 607.85mg
- Calcium: 46.92mg
- Potassium: 571.17mg
- Iron: 3.43mg
- Vitamin A: 151.19µg
- Vitamin C: 8.30mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
When cooking lentils in a slow cooker, it's important to remember that they don't require pre-soaking like other legumes. However, it's still a good idea to rinse them under cold water before adding to the slow cooker to remove any dust or debris. Additionally, adding acidic ingredients like lemon juice towards the end of the cooking process can help to keep the lentils' texture intact, as adding it too early can cause them to become tough.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out spices the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the garlic, carrots, and onions for this recipe.
Quick-release pressure: If using a pressure cooker, quick-release the pressure to speed up the cooking process.
Canned lentils: Consider using canned lentils instead of dried to significantly reduce cooking time.
Double batch: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals in the future.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup Recipe
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a similar flavor profile to garlic and will add a mild, sweet, and slightly oniony taste to the soup.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the soup, similar to carrots.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor than white onions, but they will still provide the necessary onion flavor to the soup.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock will provide a rich and savory base for the soup, and it's a great vegetarian alternative to chicken stock.
green or brown lentils - Substitute with red lentils: Red lentils cook faster and will break down more, creating a thicker and creamier texture in the soup.
madras curry powder - Substitute with garam masala: Garam masala has a similar warm and aromatic flavor profile to madras curry powder, with a slightly different blend of spices.
garam masala - Substitute with curry powder: Curry powder will provide a different mix of spices but will still add a warm and earthy flavor to the soup.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other spices in the soup.
bay leaves - Substitute with thyme: Thyme will add a subtle earthy and floral flavor to the soup, similar to bay leaves.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale will hold up well in the slow cooker and add a hearty texture to the soup, along with its nutritional benefits.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar will provide a tangy acidity to the soup, similar to lemon juice.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley will add a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the soup, similar to cilantro.
Presentation Tips for Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup
Elevate the plating: Arrange the lentil soup in a shallow bowl, ensuring that the vibrant colors of the spinach and lentils are visible. The soup should be the star of the dish, so avoid overcrowding the bowl with excessive garnishes.
Garnish with cilantro leaves: Carefully place a few fresh cilantro leaves on top of the soup. The bright green color will provide a visually appealing contrast to the warm tones of the lentil soup.
Drizzle with lemon juice: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of fresh lemon juice over the soup. The acidity will brighten the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Choose elegant, high-quality bowls to serve the lentil soup. The right vessel can enhance the overall dining experience and showcase the dish's sophistication.
Consider the placement of the soup: When presenting the soup, consider the placement on the table. Ensure that it is served at the perfect temperature and in a location that allows guests to appreciate the aroma and visual appeal before indulging.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Curried Lentil Soup
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making soups, sauces, and boiling liquids.
- Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering food at a low temperature over a long period of time.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
- Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil with a long handle, used for stirring, mixing, and cooking.
- Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups and stews.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
- Citrus juicer: A tool designed for extracting juice from citrus fruits such as lemons and limes.
- Can opener: A device used to open metal cans.
- Tongs: Kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot, used for picking up and manipulating food.
- Measuring scale: Used to weigh ingredients accurately in recipes.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Soup ladle: A large, deep spoon with a long handle, used for serving soup.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves efficiently.
- Vegetable peeler: A kitchen tool used to remove the outer skin or peel from vegetables and fruits.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Curried Lentil Soup
Let the curried lentil soup cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or multiple smaller containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing.
If using a container with a lid, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the soup to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Label the container(s) with the name of the soup and the date it was made.
For storing in the refrigerator: Place the airtight container(s) in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
For freezing: Place the airtight container(s) in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated soup, transfer it to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
To reheat the frozen soup, you can either:
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- Remove the frozen soup from the container and place it directly into a pot. Heat it over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thaws and reaches the desired temperature.
When reheating, you may need to add a little water or chicken stock to adjust the consistency of the soup, as it may thicken during storage.
Garnish the reheated curried lentil soup with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.
How To Reheat Leftover Curried Lentil Soup
To reheat leftover slow cooker curried lentil soup, start by transferring the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated to your liking. The damp paper towel will help prevent the soup from drying out or splattering in the microwave.
For a stovetop method, pour the leftover curried lentil soup into a saucepan. Heat the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pan and scorching. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out and improve the consistency.
If you have frozen your leftover lentil soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow either the microwave or stovetop method mentioned above. When reheating frozen soup, be sure to heat it thoroughly to ensure food safety and optimal flavor.
To add a fresh twist to your reheated curried lentil soup, consider garnishing it with a dollop of plain yogurt, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lemon juice. These toppings will brighten up the flavors and add a tangy, creamy, or herbaceous note to the soup.
If you find that your reheated lentil soup has thickened too much, you can easily adjust the consistency by stirring in a bit of hot chicken stock or water until you reach your desired thickness. This will also help to revive the flavors and ensure that your soup tastes just as delicious as when it was first made.
Interesting Fact About Curried Lentil Soup
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and are packed with essential nutrients such as iron, fiber, and folate. They are also known for their ability to help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
Is Making Curried Lentil Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker curried lentil soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as lentils, onion, and spinach, are budget-friendly and readily available. The addition of chicken stock and spices enhances the flavors without significantly increasing the cost. This hearty and nutritious soup offers a satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $10. The overall verdict rates this recipe at 9 out of 10 for its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Curried Lentil Soup Healthy?
This curried lentil soup recipe is a nutritious and wholesome choice. Here's why:
- Lentils: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate, lentils are a powerhouse ingredient that keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- Vegetables: The inclusion of carrots, onions, and spinach adds a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which support overall health and well-being.
- Spices: The combination of curry powder, garam masala, and cumin not only adds depth of flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Low-fat: This recipe does not rely on heavy cream or excessive amounts of oil, making it a lower-fat option compared to many other creamy soups.
- Slow cooking: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the lentils to break down, creating a comforting and easily digestible meal.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this already healthy soup, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken stock to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding diced sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added fiber and nutrients.
- Experiment with different types of lentils, such as red or black lentils, to diversify the texture and nutrient profile of the soup.
- Serve the soup with a side of whole-grain bread or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra boost of fiber and healthy fats.
Editor's Opinion on This Curried Lentil Soup Recipe
This slow cooker curried lentil soup recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and hearty lentils. The combination of madras curry powder, garam masala, and cumin creates a rich and complex flavor profile, while the addition of baby spinach and lemon juice adds a refreshing touch. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting and nourishing soup. The use of fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a burst of freshness to each spoonful. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy and flavorful meal.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Curried Lentil Soup Recipe:
This slow cooker curried lentil soup recipe is a must-try for all lentil lovers. The combination of madras curry powder, garam masala, and ground cumin creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile. The addition of baby spinach and lemon juice adds a refreshing twist, while the use of chicken stock ensures a hearty and satisfying soup. Trust the flavors of this recipe to transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise.
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