A warming, hearty soup that combines the wholesome goodness of lentils with aromatic spices and vegetables. Finished with a playful garnish of freshly popped popcorn, this modern dish brings together comfort and creativity in every bowl.
Ingredients
1 cup Nature’s Pantry Green Lentils (Kamande) or Split Red Lentils
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
4 cups vegetable stock (or water)
2 tbsp olive oil (or any cooking oil)
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, chopped (for garnish)
For the Popcorn Garnish
½ cup Nature’s Pantry Popcorn Kernels
1 tbsp oil (for popping)
A pinch of salt
Method
- Prepare the Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices & Vegetables
- Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Add carrots and tomatoes, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
- Simmer the Lentils
Rinse lentils thoroughly and add them to the pot.
Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes (green lentils) or 15–20 minutes (red lentils), until tender.
- Blend (Optional)
- For a smoother texture, use a hand blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Prepare the Popcorn Garnish
- Heat oil in a pan, add popcorn kernels, and cover with a lid.
- Allow kernels to pop, shaking the pan occasionally until popping slows.
- Season lightly with salt.
- Assemble & Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with a small handful of freshly popped popcorn.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic naan for a filling meal.
For extra richness, swirl in a spoonful of yogurt or coconut cream before adding popcorn.
Best enjoyed hot, with the popcorn added right before serving to retain crunch.