Embark on a culinary adventure with the tantalizing flavors of spicy sesame carrot soup, where the earthy sweetness of carrots and the nuttiness of red lentils converge in a velvety symphony. This vibrant soup, enriched with the warmth of sesame oil and a subtle kick of spice, takes your taste buds on a journey of delightful complexity.

In the kitchen, aromatic onions and garlic dance in sesame oil, setting the stage for the entrance of carrots, red lentils, ground cumin, and coriander. As these ingredients simmer in vegetable broth, their flavors meld and intensify, creating a rich base that promises depth and warmth. A hint of crushed red pepper flakes introduces a playful heat, elevating the soup to a dynamic crescendo.

The immersion blender transforms the simmered goodness into a silky-smooth blend, a canvas for the final act. Enter coconut milk, bestowing a luxurious creaminess that harmonizes with the earthiness of carrots and the protein-packed red lentils. Seasoned to perfection, the soup simmers, allowing the flavors to marry into a comforting embrace.

Nutritionally, this soup offers a well-rounded profile, with approximately 300-400 calories per serving. Laden with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from coconut milk, it’s both wholesome and satisfying. As the steaming bowl is presented, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of herbaceous freshness and toasted sesame seeds for added crunch, each spoonful invites you to savor the fusion of exotic flavors and the nourishing essence of this spicy sesame carrot soup with red lentils—a true celebration for your palate and well-being.

Spicy Sesame Carrot Soup with Red Lentils:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk (light or full-fat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
  2. Add sliced carrots, red lentils, ground cumin, ground coriander, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until carrots and lentils are tender.
  4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
  5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  6. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Nutritional Overview (Approximate Values for 1 Serving):

  • Calories: 300-400 kcal
  • Protein: 12-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 10-12g
  • Fat: 12-15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 600-800mg

These values are rough estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. To get precise nutritional information for your spicy sesame carrot soup with red lentils, it’s recommended to use the nutrition labels on the ingredients or a nutrition calculator. This soup provides a harmonious blend of flavors with a hint of spice, offering a wholesome and satisfying bowl of goodness.