Turmeric Ginger Red Lentil Soup Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What are the benefits of turmeric soup? ›

Heart Health: It may improve the function of the endothelium, the lining of your blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart diseases. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that turmeric may help prevent and treat cancer. Digestive Health: It aids digestion and can relieve symptoms of indigestion.

Lentils, just like beans and rice, are a natural product that does not undergo any processing before being bagged and sold. Rinsing lentils will allow you to get rid of any accumulated dust, dirt, small rocks, twigs and possibly bugs that have come along for the ride: you don't want any of that in your food!

Red lentils are best for soups, curries, dals, and anything that craves a creamy, thicker, more comforting touch.

You can also use flour or cornflour to thicken a soup. Put a tablespoon of either into a small bowl and stir in 2-3 tbsp of the soup until you have a smooth mixture. Stir this back into the soup and bring it to a simmer.

Some studies suggest that ginger and turmeric could help decrease markers of inflammation, relieve chronic pain, reduce nausea, and improve immune function.

Yes, you can overcook lentils; they will become mushy. Much depends on the type of lentil you're using. Some cook quicker and hold their shape better than others. To avoid overcooking them, always follow the cooking directions in your recipe and use the type of lentils called for in the ingredient list.

I don't think I have ever washed lentils and we're all still here I even fed all my babies on red lentils without washing them. After all they are going to be boiled. There'll be no food poisoning, just maybe a bit of grit. But I never wash lentils and they don't taste gritty.

Support your digestive system

Lentils are rich in a type of fiber that helps your digestive system work as it should and fuels good bacteria in your gut. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. “Fiber plays an important role in regulating our bowels and protecting the immune system,” says Homan.

Black Lentils (Beluga lentils)

Best of all, black lentils are the most nutritious variety of lentils, boasting the highest amount of protein, plus high levels of calcium, potassium, and iron.

Pair this lentil soup with crusty bread or a hearty salad like my kale salad or sweet potato salad. It would also go well with a vegetable side dish like roasted cauliflower, roasted broccoli, or a baked sweet potato.

What's the difference between lentils and red lentils? ›

Red and green lentils are very different and don't make good substitutes for each other. Green lentils have thick skins and hold their shape when cooked. Red lentils are hulled with the skins removed and tend to become soft and mushy.

Maybe try adding some salt for better flavour. The only type of lentils you shouldn't have is raw lentils, since that would probably make you sick. What are some simple recipes with lentils that don't taste bland? I love lentil soup with different spice blends, like yellow curry or Harissa.

Rinse your lentils with fresh water before boiling to remove any dust or debris. Cook on a stovetop, using 3 cups of liquid (water, stock, etc) to 1 cup of dry lentils. Be sure to use a large enough saucepan as the lentils will double or triple in size.

Make sure to not overcook the lentils, or else they will become extremely mushy. That will not affect the taste of this yummy soup, but the mushy lentils thicken the soup and give it a different, less pleasant consistency.

According to a study conducted at the Tufts University, curcumin can actually suppress fat tissue growth. Another way in which turmeric helps in losing weight by regulating sugar levels and further preventing insulin resistance. This results in excess fat that is not retained in the body.

People who should not take turmeric include those with gallbladder problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infertility, iron deficiency, liver disease, hormone-sensitive conditions, and arrhythmia. Pregnant women and those who are going to undergo surgery should not use turmeric.

If you were wondering how long it takes turmeric to work, this can vary from person to person. However, you should usually expect to start noticing improvements in around 4-8 weeks when taken daily.

Geiger says turmeric spices contain around 3% curcumin, while extracts in supplement form can contain 95% curcumin. Waegelein says she typically recommends curcumin supplements over turmeric, since they can be more effective.