Warm up May's chill with aromatic red lentil soup delight

Recently, May weather has not been very indulgent, and we'll have to wait a bit longer for summer dinners. When we return home wondering what went wrong and why we still need an extra layer of clothing, delicious food can lift our spirits. Among those tasty mood-improvers in my home is the aromatic lentil soup.

This is a tasty alternative to classic tomato or cucumber soup. Aromatic, warming dishes pleasantly tantalise the taste buds and make even the rain less depressing. The addition of lentils makes the soup filling, allowing you to skip a second course. Lentils provide plant protein, which ensures a feeling of fullness. They are also a source of fibre that positively impacts digestion, internally coating the intestines.

Lentil soup also tastes good when reheated, which is why I often cook it for two or even three days. This way, I quickly have lunch ready and don't have to rely on snacks when my stomach starts to growl. Red lentils cook very quickly and break down, creating a thick soup. If you prefer soup with visible pieces of lentils, cook it for a shorter time.

Ingredients:

• 60 grams red lentils,
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes,
• 600 millilitres broth or stock,
• 1 onion,
• 3 cloves garlic,
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, vegetable oil, or clarified butter,
• 1 teaspoon turmeric,
• 1 teaspoon curry powder,
• 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika,
• 1 flat teaspoon sweet paprika,
• Salt and pepper to taste,
• 60 millilitres heavy cream or coconut milk,
• Parsley or coriander.

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a pot and add the chopped onion.
2. Sauté until it becomes translucent and add the finely chopped or pressed garlic.
3. After a minute, add the lentils and spices, and stir.
4. After a while, pour in the broth and cook until the lentils are soft. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
5. Add the tinned tomatoes and cook for another 15 minutes.
6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and add the cream or coconut milk.
8. Add the chopped parsley or coriander and mix.

Simple and delicious lentil soup is now ready. Enjoy!