Ingredients
Method
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Toast the Spices:
- Add the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their aroma.
Simmer the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Add the red lentils and diced apple. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
Blend for Creaminess:
- Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for heartiness. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.
Add Protein and Coconut Milk:
- Stir in the shredded chicken (if using) and coconut milk. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, and toasted coconut flakes if desired. Serve warm with naan or crusty bread.
Notes
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. Add chickpeas or tofu for protein.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Adjust Spice Level: Increase cayenne pepper for a spicier soup or omit it for a milder version.
- Optional Add-Ins: Diced potatoes, spinach, or peas can be added for extra flavor and texture.
