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+ servings
Bowl of creamy carrot lentil soup garnished with fresh herbs and spices.

One Pot Creamy Carrot Lentil Soup

This One Pot Creamy Carrot Lentil Soup is a heartwarming, rustic dish made with roasted carrots and red lentils, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Comfort Food, Vegetarian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup canned coconut milk (or light cream) Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Spices and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Optional: toasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of yogurt for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Building Flavor

  • Add the chopped carrots, ground cumin, ground coriander, cinnamon, and tomato paste. Stir to coat and cook for 3–4 minutes to bloom the spices.

Cooking the Soup

  • Pour in the red lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cover. Cook for 15–20 minutes until the carrots are tender and the lentils are soft.

Finishing Touches

  • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender.
  • Stir in the coconut milk (or cream), lemon juice, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently for a minute or two — don’t boil.

Serving

  • Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a spoonful of yogurt.

Notes

Red lentils cook faster and break down to a creamy texture. Control the thickness of the soup by adjusting broth. Store any leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later use.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5g
Keyword Carrot Soup, creamy soup, Lentil Soup, one pot meal, Vegetarian Recipe
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