Red Lentil Ginger Soup

Lentils are high in folate, fiber, and potassium. They are a good addition to your diet if you are looking to lower blood pressure or cholesterol levels. They are easy to use and can be added into many recipes. I usually purchase lentils from Bob's Red Mill. 

 

This soup can be made in about 30 minutes. 

It is perfect for a chilly fall evening!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Red Lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth (I use low sodium)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 4 cloves of garlic (diced)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp crushed black pepper
  
• 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• Just enough olive oil so noting stick to the pan

 

Instructions:

• Add just enough olive oil to caramelize the onion in a soup pot 
• Add the ginger, garlic, and spices and warm for a minute or two 
• Add lentils and broth and bring to a boil
• Reduce to simmer and cook for about 30 minutes (covered)
• Use an immersion blender to smooth the texture OR place the soup in a VitaMix to make it a silky texture

 

 

Serve: Garnished with crushed red pepper, seeds, or gluten free bread crumbs

Lentil Tikka Masala

 Tikka Masala can be enjoyed Gluten Free and Vegan. 

Ingredients:

•  olive oil ... just enough so nothing sticks
  
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1-2  tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (fire roasted or with peppers added)
  
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  
• 1 1/2 cups red lentils
• 1 can coconut milk

Instructions:

Saute onion, garlic, ginger, and garam masala in olive oil until onions are translucent

Add can of tomatoes, broth, and lentils. Stir to combine.

Bring to a boil then turn heat down to low and cover. 

Once most of the liquid is absorbed, add the coconut milk. Start with 1/2 a can. Add the full can if the extra liquid is needed (based on personal preference and how absorbent the lentils are).

 

Enjoy with rice ... white or brown based on your preference.