Hello food lovers,
Fall is truly the perfect season for vibrant flavors and hearty meals, and there’s something so comforting about wrapping up in the kitchen’s warmth while the weather gets a bit nippier. Today, I’m delighted to share a recipe that fuses rustic charm with a delightful kick. Say hello to Spicy Chorizo and Lentil Soup with a Hint of Coriander.
If you’re someone who appreciates the deep smoky flavors of chorizo mingled with the earthy taste of lentils, this dish is going to feel like a cozy embrace! A single ladleful brings a vibrant blend of colors and textures to your plate, combining the richness of chorizo with the zesty aroma of coriander. This soup is like magic, making a substantial meal that’s also a perfect make-ahead option, whether for lunch or dinner.
One of my favorite compliments to this soup is a side of warm, crusty bread. Dip it into the spicy broth for a bit of everyday heaven. While crafting this dish, I find pleasure in the sizzling chorizo—the way it releases its oils is quite the sensory experience. Each crispy piece adds a robust bite throughout the soup that simply tugs at the heartstrings.
Switching the lens to a family perspective, this soup is a marvelous way to lure everyone into the kitchen with its sizzling, aromatic promise. It’s tales like these that make meal sharing special, don’t you think? Arrange steaming bowls on the table, and watch as they’re enjoyed amidst conversation and laughter.
While the ingredients list is simple, the depth of flavor is far from modest. We’ve harnessed everyday ingredients: lentils and seasonal veggies dressed with bold spices, elevated with a bright squeeze of lime, all finished with a generous sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves. It’s like tasting travel within the comfort of your own home!
Whether you’re an established connoisseur of soups or exploring flavors for the first time, I assure you this Spicy Chorizo and Lentil Soup will find its way into your regular rotation. It certainly has in ours—a little unicorn of a recipe that’s diverse in its appeal yet straightforward in preparation.
I hope you’ll cozily embrace these flavors as I did and perhaps even bring the essence of this spicy comfort into your home. Let this recipe make the colder nights just a bit warmer, always ready with its enticing spices and heartwarming base.
Here’s to a bowl of creative comfort!
Best wishes,
Al
Ingredients
– 200g chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 200g red lentils, rinsed
– 1.2 liters chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime
– Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
– Crusty bread, to serve (optional)
Method
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chorizo and fry for 5-7 minutes until it starts to release its oil and becomes slightly crispy. Remove the chorizo from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and optional chili flakes, and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring continuously.
3. Add the diced carrots and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Stir in the rinsed red lentils, ensuring they are coated in the spices and vegetables. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the can of chopped tomatoes. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The lentils should be tender and the flavors well combined.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add the lime juice and return the crispy chorizo slices to the pot, stirring well.
7. Allow the soup to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Accompany with crusty bread, if desired.
