Assalamu Alaikum, my lovely readers! Ramadan Mubarak to you all! As a mum of 4, I know how important it is to have a comforting, nourishing meal ready for Iftar. After a long day of fasting, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to break your fast with…it’s gentle on the stomach, packed with goodness, and oh-so-satisfying.
That’s why today, I’m sharing my go to Lentil Soup recipe. It’s delicious, healthy, and full of flavour, thanks to a few little Bengali-inspired twists. Plus, it’s super easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Even my picky eaters can’t resist this one…and that’s saying something!
Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee (for that rich, buttery flavour)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 green chilli, finely chopped (optional, but adds a lovely kick)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, diced (optional, for extra heartiness)
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock (or water)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Method
- Prep the lentils:
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch and prevents the soup from becoming too thick. - Sauté the aromatics:
Heat the olive oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilli. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and golden. - Spice it up:
Add the turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chilli powder. Stir everything together and let the spices cook for a minute to release their flavours. - Add the veggies and lentils:
Toss in the diced carrot, potato (if using), and chopped tomato. Stir well to coat the veggies in the spices. Then, add the rinsed lentils and give everything a good mix. - Simmer to perfection:
Pour in the stock or water, season with salt, and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The lentils should be soft and the veggies tender. - Blend (optional):
If you prefer a smoother soup, use a hand blender to partially blend the soup. I like to leave it a bit chunky for texture, but it’s entirely up to you! - Serve with love:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice just before eating adds a lovely brightness to the soup.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Iftar
- Light yet filling: Lentils are a great source of protein and fibre, making this soup both nourishing and satisfying.
- Easy on the stomach: After a day of fasting, this soup is gentle and hydrating, helping you ease into your meal.
- Customisable: Add more veggies, adjust the spice level, or throw in some cooked chicken if you want to bulk it up.
Tips and Tricks
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch and reheat it for Iftar.
- Freezer-friendly: Portion it out and freeze for those evenings when you need a quick, wholesome meal.
- Serve with sides: Pair it with warm crusty bread, naan, or even a simple salad for a complete meal.
A Little Note from Me
This lentil soup is a staple in our household during Ramadan. It’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids to eat their veggies without any fuss – just blend it smooth, and they’ll never know!
I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any special twists you like to add. Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan filled with love, peace, and plenty of delicious Iftar meals.
Much love,
Shahena x 💕
P.S. Don’t forget to save some for Suhoor. Save time and energy! 😉