Warm up this winter with a bowl of Moroccan-Spiced Lentil and Quinoa Soup. The rich, earthy flavors of lentils and quinoa, combined with bold Moroccan spices, create a comforting and nutritious meal. The harissa drizzle adds a delightful kick, making it a perfect winter warmer.
**Prep Time**: 15 minutes
**Cook Time**: 45 minutes
**Servings**: 4-6
Why This Soup is a Winter Winner
This soup combines the earthy flavors of lentils and quinoa with the bold spices of Morocco, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The addition of harissa, a North African chili paste, adds a delightful kick. It's vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it both hearty and healthy.
The Benefits of Our Chosen Ingredients
- **Lentils**: A fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, lentils help keep you full and support digestive health.
- **Quinoa**: Known as a complete protein, quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids and adds a delightful texture to the soup.
- **Turmeric**: This spice is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties and adds a vibrant color to the dish.
- **Harissa**: A spicy chili paste that adds depth and a hint of heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro and mint, chopped, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Soup:**
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Stir in the carrots and sweet potato, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Add the lentils, quinoa, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are tender.
2. **Blend and Add Coconut Milk:**
- Use an immersion blender to slightly puree the soup, leaving some texture. Alternatively, transfer half to a blender and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Prepare the Harissa Drizzle:**
- In a small bowl, mix the harissa paste with a splash of olive oil to make it drizzle-ready.
4. **Serve:**
- Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with the harissa mixture.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint, and serve warm.
Serving Size:
This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 250, Carbs: 40g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 10g
Scaling Instructions:
- **For 2 servings**: Halve all ingredients.
- **For 8 servings**: Double all ingredients.
Shopping List:
- Organic extra virgin olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Carrots
- Sweet potato
- Red lentils
- Quinoa
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Ground turmeric
- Ground cinnamon
- Vegetable broth
- Coconut milk
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh mint
- Harissa paste
Pairing Note:
This Moroccan-Spiced Lentil and Quinoa Soup pairs beautifully with a side of warm, crusty bread. The soup's rich and spicy flavors are complemented by the bread's texture, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Chef's Note:
For a more intense flavor, allow the spices to bloom by toasting them in the pot before adding the vegetables. Adjust the harissa to your desired level of spiciness. Experiment with different garnishes like lemon zest or toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.
Additional Info:
This soup is not only comforting but also packed with flavors that are perfect for a winter evening. Plus, it's vegan and gluten-free, aligning with our brand's focus on healthy, inclusive options. Enjoy the warmth and let us know how it turns out!
Embrace Your Culinary Creativity
Remember, culinary creativity is as unique as you are! Your finished creation may look different from our image, which is meant for inspiration. Embrace your personal touch and enjoy the process of making each recipe your own!
Conclusion:
The combination of spices, lentils, and quinoa, along with the creamy coconut milk and spicy harissa, ensures a flavorful and satisfying dish. The fresh herbs add a bright finish, making this soup both comforting and exciting. It should be a hit for anyone looking for a hearty, globally-inspired meal.
Share Your Creations!
We'd love to see how your Moroccan-Spiced Lentil and Quinoa Soup turns out! Tag @TheFoodIsGoodLC and use #WinterWarmers #GlobalFlavors #BudsAndBites in your posts. Also, join our FB group #CuriousBudsSociety and visit our #BudsAndBitesChefGuide on IG for more exciting recipes and pairing suggestions.
