Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing dish that supports your health and warms your soul, this Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup is just what you need. Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The combination of lentils, turmeric, and fresh herbs makes this soup not just a meal but a hug in a bowl!

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to enjoy a comforting dinner, this Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nourishing goodness: Each bowl is filled with ingredients that promote liver and digestive health.
• Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavor, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-ahead friendly: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making meal prep a breeze.
• Flavor explosion: The warm spices like turmeric and cumin create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup are both wholesome and simple. No fancy items here—just good, nourishing foods that you can feel good about eating!

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped turnip (or potato)
• 2 1/2 cups chopped sweet potato
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

For the Lentils

• 1 cup green (or brown lentils)
• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 – 2 tablespoons turmeric (I like 2)
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin

For the Broth

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water

For the Finish

• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 cup fresh herbs (I like parsley)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more greens: Toss in some kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Switch up the legumes: Try using chickpeas or black beans instead of lentils for a different flavor profile.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some coconut milk instead of almond milk for a richer texture.

How to Make Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the avocado oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped onions, celery, turnip (or potato), and garlic. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and thyme during this step to enhance their flavors. It’s important to let them cook down; this builds a tasty base for your soup!

Step 2: Add Lentils and Spices

Next, stir in the green (or brown) lentils along with the red lentils, turmeric, ginger, and cumin. Sauté these together for another 1-2 minutes. This allows the spices to toast slightly, releasing their wonderful aromas and intensifying their flavors before adding the liquid.

Step 3: Simmer Away

Now it’s time to add in the vegetable broth and water. Bring everything to a boil! Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow cooking helps meld all those fantastic flavors together while allowing the lentils to become tender.

Step 4: Finish with Creaminess

After simmering, remove your pot from heat. Stir in almond milk, fresh spinach, herbs of your choice (I love parsley!), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes until the spinach wilts down into this beautiful soup. Serve immediately! Enjoy every spoonful of this Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup knowing you’re treating yourself well!

Pro Tips for Making Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience and ensure the best flavor!

• Prep your ingredients in advance: Chop all your veggies and measure out your spices beforehand. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster, allowing you to enjoy your time in the kitchen without feeling rushed.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley not only add bright flavors but also enhance the nutritional value of your soup. They can help boost your immune system and provide additional antioxidants.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or even add more turmeric if you love its earthy flavor. Tasting as you go will help you achieve a perfect balance.
• Experiment with lentils: While this recipe calls for green and red lentils, you can mix it up! Try yellow or black lentils for different textures and flavors. Each type of lentil cooks differently, so just keep an eye on them.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch for meal prep, and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

How to Serve Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup

This Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup is not only nourishing but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some extra parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh touch that adds color and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their bowls. The acidity brightens up the dish remarkably.
• Avocado slices: A few slices of creamy avocado can take your soup to another level, adding richness and healthy fats.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole-grain bread: A warm slice of whole-grain bread pairs perfectly with this soup, great for dipping and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the hearty soup while adding crunch.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables can provide an additional protein boost while balancing out the meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs serve as a tasty side that enhances the comforting feel of the soup.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy a delightful bowl of Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup that not only warms your heart but supports your health!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or when you want to have healthy meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label containers with the date, so you can easily keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as the soup freezes.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your cooking journey.

Can I make Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is great for making ahead and can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.

How long does Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I substitute other vegetables in Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup?

Yes, feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Carrots, zucchini, or even kale can be delicious additions!

Is Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be easily stored or frozen for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Detox Turmeric Lentil Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a wholesome recipe but also a comforting hug in a bowl that nourishes your body and soul. Let this vibrant soup brighten your day and inspire your kitchen adventures. Happy cooking!