Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach

Ingredients

1. 1 cup red lentils, washed and drained
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 onion, finely chopped
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 teaspoon cumin
6. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
7. 1/2 teaspoon coriander
8. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
9. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
10. 4 cups vegetable broth
11. 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
12. Salt and pepper to taste
13. Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Steps

Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.

Step 2: Add minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook for a minute until the spices become fragrant.

Step 3: Add washed red lentils to the pot and stir to coat them with the spices.

Step 4: Pour in diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Step 6: Stir in chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 7: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve the Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach hot, optionally with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Enjoy this wholesome and smoky lentil soup as a nourishing meal on cold days.