In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want to see the oil shimmer but not smoke. This step is crucial as it sets the base for all the flavors to come.
Add the diced onion, diced carrots, and kosher salt to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook until the vegetables start to soften, which usually takes about 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them, they should be tender but not browned.
Once your vegetables are soft, reduce the heat to low. This is where the magic happens. Add the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir continuously for about a minute to coat the vegetables with the spices. You’ll notice that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and minced fresh ginger. These ingredients add an aromatic punch, so cook them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If the spices start to stick, drizzle in a little more olive oil to prevent burning.
Now it’s time to add the star of the show—pour in the rinsed and drained red lentils, followed by the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together and turn the heat up to bring it to a gentle simmer.
Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. You want the lentils to become tender but not mushy, which should take about 25 minutes. If it gets too thick, don’t hesitate to splash a bit of water to adjust the consistency.
After 25 minutes, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and taste the soup. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning; if it needs more kosher salt, add it now. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a touch more cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. The vibrant green adds a beautiful contrast and a hint of freshness that elevates the dish.
Serve the Curry Lentil Soup warm, and watch as your family and friends gather around, drawn in by the enticing aroma. Enjoy every comforting bite!
