Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

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on November 20, 2025


Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the creamy richness of coconut milk and the nutty flavor of red lentils. This soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It cooks in just under half an hour and is so easy to prepare. You will enjoy the fragrant spices and fresh ingredients that create a beautiful balance of flavors. Whether you are a fan of vegetarian meals or just looking to try something new, this soup is a great choice. Its warming qualities make it ideal for any season.

This Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Red lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, which helps keep you full and satisfied. The coconut milk adds a creamy texture without the need for dairy, making it a perfect option for those who are lactose intolerant. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, so you can enjoy this flavorful dish without much hassle. Plus, you can make it as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the seasoning.

How to Make Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup red lentils, 1 can coconut milk, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon ginger, minced, 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt and pepper to taste, fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened. Add the curry powder and cook for another minute. Stir in the red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 20 minutes. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Blend if desired for a smoother texture, then serve garnished with fresh cilantro.

How to Serve Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

Serve the Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup hot in bowls. You can add extra cilantro on top for a fresh touch. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it as a comforting lunch or dinner, and it’s also great for meal prep.

How to Store Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens after refrigeration, add a bit of vegetable broth or water to get it back to your desired consistency.

Tips for the Best Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

Make sure to rinse the red lentils before cooking to remove any dust. Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less curry powder. Add veggies like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. If you want a creamier soup, blend it until smooth with a hand blender.

Recipe Variations

You can try adding different spices like turmeric or coriander for added flavor. For a bit of heat, throw in some chili flakes or fresh chopped chili. If you prefer a lighter version, replace some of the coconut milk with more vegetable broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, but keep in mind that cooking times may differ. Red lentils cook faster and break down for a smoother soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, including the soy sauce if you choose a gluten-free version.

Can I add meat to this soup?
While this recipe is vegetarian, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp if desired. Just add those ingredients at the end to heat through.

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Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup

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A warm and comforting soup featuring creamy coconut milk and nutty red lentils, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
  2. Add the curry powder and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in the red lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.
  5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Blend if desired for a smoother texture, then serve garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

Rinse the red lentils before cooking to remove any dust. Adjust spice levels by adding more or less curry powder. For extra nutrition and flavor, add veggies like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers.

  • Author: maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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