How to Make the Perfect Creamy Vegan Tomato Lentil Soup
Mediterranean · Easy · 40 min · 6 servings
A rich and warming vegan soup made with red lentils, fire roasted tomatoes, and coconut milk. This comforting bowl is deeply nourishing and full of plant based protein.
Why this recipe works
This Creamy Vegan Tomato Lentil Soup recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 320 calories with 14g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 10 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 cups red lentils rinsed
- 1 can fire roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 can full fat coconut milk
- 1 whole yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, rinsed red lentils, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes stirring occasionally until the lentils are completely soft and beginning to break down.
Step 4: Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of coconut milk, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- red lentils → green lentils work but require longer cooking time
- full fat coconut milk → light coconut milk or cashew cream for lower fat option
- fire roasted tomatoes → regular crushed tomatoes plus a pinch of extra smoked paprika
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Do not skip rinsing the lentils as it removes excess starch and prevents a gummy texture
- Do not boil the soup after adding coconut milk as it can cause the milk to separate
- Do not blend the entire soup as leaving some texture makes it more satisfying and hearty
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 320 calories, 14g protein, 42g carbs, 10g fat, 11g fiber.
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