It is that time of year again, where the threat of snow lingers, you’re blown off your feet by the cold Edinburgh wind and you need that little something to warm you up, especially if Paula and Jasmina’s tips above have not worked. This recipe is sure to tickle your taste buds, whilst providing you with a source of comfort (because let’s face it, we all need it).
Lentils are one of the best ingredients to put into a soup to guarantee it’s going to be yummy and filling. You can choose what to put in, so if you have any preferred suggestions, then swap ingredients around.
First start by toasting 1tsp of mild chilli powder, then pour in 3tbsp of olive oil until it begins to sizzle. Next add in 2 thinly sliced onions, 2 cloves of garlic, crushed and finely chopped, 20g coriander stalks (or like myself, pick up a jar of ground coriander and sprinkle in 1 and a half tsp). Next add in 1 and a half teaspoons of ginger for that extra bit of spice and warmth into this winter warmer. As with every dish, season with salt and pepper and cook on a low heat for 5 minutes whilst stirring occasionally.
Whilst your pan is simmering gently, peel and chop 800g of sweet potato. If you have a food processor, this will make your life a lot easier. If not, I would suggest grating the sweet potatoes, to achieve a smoother consistency at the end.
Now we add in 2 vegetable stock cubes. I would suggest placing these in boiling water and breaking them up with a fork before tipping them into the soup. Next, tip in 100g of red lentils, 300ml of milk and season again with salt and pepper. Now leave to simmer and fill your home with delicious toasty winter smells that your flatmates will thank you for.
Again, this is where a food processor or a hand blender will make your life a whole lot easier. If you don’t have either of these, your soup will still taste as exceptional, but with a chunkier consistency. Finally add in either lime juice or lemon juice to give the dish a kick.
Test your soup to make it perfect for you before serving. Decorate with chopped up coriander leaves if you’re feeling fancy!
[Image: KaboomPics @ Flickr]