Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup ( Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker)

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing dish that warms the soul, you’ve found it with this Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup (Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker). This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home because it’s packed with flavor and nutrition while being incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this soup brings comfort and joy to any occasion.

The beauty of this Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its vibrant color and hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for meal prep too—make a big batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have healthy lunches ready to go. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet potatoes and lentils create a delightful sweetness that kids will love while keeping everyone satisfied.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose the Instant Pot, stove top, or slow cooker, you can make this soup your way.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from kale, sweet potatoes, and spices like turmeric, this soup is as healthy as it is comforting.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer—perfect for planned meals or unexpected guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need to hunt for exotic ingredients here! This Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup features simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 2 tbsp butter, ghee, or coconut oil
• 1/2 of a yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder (like this)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder (like this)
• one inch knob of ginger, grated

For the Soup

• 1 and 1/4 cup red lentils (like this)
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 5 cups good quality broth (homemade bone broth or veggie broth)
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (I use THIS brand)
• 3 cups kale, de-stemmed and sliced into thin ribbons
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily modify it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your soup an extra kick.
• Creamy Alternatives: Swap coconut milk for cashew cream if you’re looking for a different creamy texture.
• Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken for an added protein punch.

How to Make Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup (Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode and melt your choice of fat. Add the chopped onions and cook them until they turn translucent—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Then toss in the garlic along with curry powder and turmeric. Sautéing these spices releases amazing aromas that will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Step 2: Add in Remaining Ingredients

Next up is adding the ginger, lentils, sweet potatoes, carrots, and broth. Lock the lid on your Instant Pot and set the vent valve to “sealing.” Cooking on HIGH pressure for just 5 minutes allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 3: Finish with Coconut Milk & Greens

Once you’ve quick-released the pressure after cooking, turn the Instant Pot back to SAUTE. Stir in coconut milk along with kale and black pepper. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the kale softens. Not only does this add creaminess but also a pop of green goodness!

Step 4: Final Touches

Lastly, turn off your Instant Pot. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir through chopped cilantro. This brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully!

Now you’re ready to enjoy a steaming bowl of Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup ( Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker)

Creating a delicious and nutritious soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup experience.

• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices can make a world of difference in flavor. Always prefer freshly ground turmeric and curry powder if possible, as they pack more punch and aroma compared to older, pre-ground spices.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply blend a portion of it with an immersion blender after cooking. This method gives the soup a creamy texture while keeping some chunky bits for heartiness.

• Experiment with greens: While kale is a fantastic choice, feel free to substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard for different flavor profiles and nutritional benefits. Each green will add its unique touch!

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy meal prep throughout the week.

• Add protein: For an added boost of protein, consider stirring in cooked quinoa or chickpeas just before serving. This enhances the nutritional value and makes the meal even more satisfying.

How to Serve Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup ( Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker)

Serving your Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top adds vibrant color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges allows guests to add a splash of citrus that brightens up every spoonful.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering chili flakes on the side lets everyone customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm crusty bread pairs perfectly with this soup, ideal for dipping and soaking up those lovely flavors.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa on the side adds additional protein and fiber while enhancing the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or zucchini provide a delicious contrast in texture and boost the meal’s healthiness.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup will not only warm hearts but also delight taste buds! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes for a cozy, healthy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, heat in short intervals and stir in between to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup that might help you out!

Can I make Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup (Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker) vegan?

Absolutely! You can easily make this soup vegan by using coconut oil instead of butter or ghee and ensuring your broth is vegetable-based.

How long does Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup (Instant Pot, stove top or slow cooker) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. It’s great for meal prep!

What type of lentils should I use for this recipe?

Red lentils work best for this Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup because they cook quickly and break down nicely, creating a creamy texture.

Can I add other vegetables to the Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize your soup by adding other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you find joy in making this Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and nourishment. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your experience with me—I can’t wait to hear how you made it your own!