Mauritian Lentil Soup Recipe

Mauritian Lentil Soup Recipe is made with red lentils, onion, garlic, ginger, carrot, tomato, potato, vegetable oil, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, coriander powder, paprika, curry powder, bay leaf, vegetable or chicken broth, salt, pepper, fresh cilantro, and lemon juice (optional). This hearty soup recipe creates a delicious and nourishing meal that takes about 45 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 4 people.

Mauritian Lentil Soup Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils (rinsed and drained)
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 large carrot (diced)
• 1 large tomato (diced)
• 1 large potato (diced)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tanginess)

Mauritian Lentil Soup Instructions

• Rinse and drain red lentils; set aside.
• Dice carrot, potato, and tomato; chop onion finely, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, add cumin seeds, and cook until they sizzle.
• Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent.
• Stir in diced carrot, potato, and tomato; cook for 5 minutes.
• Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, paprika, and curry powder; stir well.
• Add lentils and bay leaf, pour in broth, and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low, simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender.
• Remove bay leaf; use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup if desired.
• Season with salt and pepper; stir in lemon juice if using.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with bread or rice.

Recipe Tips

• Sauté Spices First: To intensify the flavors, sauté the cumin seeds and spices in the oil before adding the onions. This helps release their essential oils and deepen the flavor profile of the soup.
• Use Homemade Broth: For a richer and more nuanced flavor, use homemade vegetable or chicken broth instead of store-bought. If using store-bought, opt for low-sodium versions to better control the salt level.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color. You can also use mint for a unique flavor twist.

How To Store Mauritian Lentil Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the lentil soup to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pot with a lid. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How To Reheat Leftover Mauritian Lentil Soup

On the Stovetop: Pour the leftover soup into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it is heated through, about 5-10 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

In the Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

In the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is hot throughout.

What To Serve Mauritian Lentil Soup

Mauritian Lentil Soup Recipe pairs well with crusty bread, naan, rice, and roti. It also can be served alongside a fresh green salad, yogurt, pickles, and fried plantains for a more satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, to make the soup vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any optional non-vegan toppings like yogurt. The soup is naturally plant-based and flavorful on its own.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of curry powder and paprika. For a milder soup, reduce the amount of curry powder, or for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, the soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

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• Andersen’s Pea Soup Recipe
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