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Thai-Inspired Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk

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  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmer
  • Cuisine: Thai / Asian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A creamy, warming Thai‑inspired red lentil soup cooked with coconut milk and spices — hearty, flavorful, and vegan‑friendly.


Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
  • 12 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional but adds depth)
  • 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (about 14 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
  • 45 cups vegetable broth (or water + stock cube)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime (optional, for brightness)
  • Fresh cilantro (coriander) or chopped herbs, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water, drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the coconut oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sweat until softened (about 3–5 minutes).
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the red curry paste (and turmeric, if using) and cook for about 1 minute to release the aromas.
  5. Add the rinsed red lentils and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15–20 minutes — or until the lentils are soft and starting to break down.
  7. Stir in the coconut milk and simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. If desired, squeeze in fresh lime juice for brightness. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or herbs.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully purée the soup before adding coconut milk.
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  • If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water as needed.
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  • This recipe is vegan and gluten‑free. You can add a pinch of chili or chili flakes if you like extra heat.
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  • Serve with rice, naan, or steamed vegetables to make the meal more filling.
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Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: ≈266 kcal
  • Sugar: ≈5 g
  • Sodium: ≈95 mg
  • Fat: ≈14 g
  • Carbohydrates: ≈28 g
  • Fiber: ≈11 g
  • Protein: ≈10 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg