Lahori Spiced Lentil Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Minestra sporca to Lahori cuisine, we incorporate the vibrant flavors of Lahori spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. These spices add a distinct taste and aroma that are characteristic of Lahori cuisine. Additionally, we garnish the soup with fresh cilantro and serve it with a squeeze of lemon, which enhances the flavors and adds a tangy element. We alse have the original recipe for Minestra sporca, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) red lentils 1 cup (200g) red lentils
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste and adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth if desired.
8. 8.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice on top.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lentils — Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities or debris.
• Cumin powder — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them into powder will enhance their flavor.
• Garam masala — Use freshly ground garam masala for the best flavor. You can make your own by combining whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Serve the soup with warm naan bread or rice for a complete meal.
• Customize the soup by adding vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk or cream.
• Make a larger batch and freeze the leftovers for quick and convenient meals.

Serving advice

Serve the Lahori Spiced Lentil Soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. Accompany the soup with warm naan bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Lahori Spiced Lentil Soup in a rustic bowl, allowing the vibrant orange color of the soup to shine through. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro and place a lemon wedge on the side for an inviting touch. Serve with warm naan bread or rice on a wooden platter for an authentic Lahori presentation.