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Healing Anti-Inflammatory Red Lentil Soup Recipe

As the days grow colder and the nights longer, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Particularly, a hearty red lentil soup, which not only warms your stomach but also promotes wellness. Packed with nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties, this red lentil soup is an excellent addition to your diet, particularly if you’re seeking to reduce inflammation and boost your immune system.

The Benefits of Red Lentils

Red lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are high in protein, rich in fibre, and low in fat, making them an ideal source of energy. Moreover, they are also abundant in essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.

One of the standout qualities of lentils is their anti-inflammatory properties. They contain a good amount of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Incorporating red lentils into your diet can also support heart health and improve digestive health.

Additional Ingredients with Healing Properties

This delightful soup is not only based on red lentils but is also infused with a medley of other healing ingredients that contribute to its overall health benefits:

• Turmeric: Known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric contains curcumin, which can help alleviate pain and promote healing.
• Garlic: This superfood is praised for its immune-boosting capabilities, alongside its ability to fight inflammation and support heart health.
• Carrots and Celery: Both are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
• Spinach: A superfood rich in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is excellent for your skin and immune system.

Healing Anti-Inflammatory Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (optional)
• Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by rinsing the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Prepare the vegetables by chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and mincing the garlic and ginger.

2. Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Spices: Stir in the turmeric and cumin powders, allowing them to cook for another minute to release their flavours.

4. Combine the Veggies and Lentils: Add the diced carrots and celery, followed by the rinsed red lentils. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and stir well to combine.

5. Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat until the mixture begins to boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

6. Finish with Greens: Add the fresh spinach (or kale), stirring it in until wilted. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.

7. Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your liking.

8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh coriander or parsley if you wish. Enjoy your nourishing bowl of healing!

Storage

This red lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened.

Conclusion

This Healing Anti-Inflammatory Red Lentil Soup is not just a delightful dish; it’s a warm embrace from the inside out. With its rich combination of spices and vegetables, it’s a powerhouse of health benefits, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a nutritious boost. So, whip up a batch and nourish your body with every comforting spoonful!