Ginger-Turmeric Spiced Lentil Soup

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-28 · Updated 2026-06-28

A comforting and vibrant lentil soup with warming ginger and turmeric, perfect for a nourishing and wholesome meal. This indian-inspired vegan (gluten free, vegan) ready in about 40 minutes pairs red lentils, vegetable broth, medium yellow onion, diced for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add 1 medium diced yellow onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and aromatic.
3. Step 3: Stir in 1 tsp turmeric powder, then add 1 cup red lentils and 4 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft.
4. Step 4: Add 1 large diced carrot halfway through cooking to keep some texture.
5. Step 5: Season with 1 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving warm.