Soup · Dinner · Indian ·

Smoked Indian Lentil and Amaranth Soup with Toasted Spices

Dive into a bowl of comforting lentils and nutritious amaranth, smoked to perfection and spiced up for a delightful experience.

4.2(428 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Smoked Indian Lentil and Amaranth Soup with Toasted Spices — Soup served and photographed from above
Prep
35 min
Cook
1 h 45 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
6

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Lentil and Amaranth Base

  1. 1

    Combine ingredients

    In a large pot, combine the lentils, amaranth, and vegetable broth.

  2. 2

    Simmer

    Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes until both are tender.

  3. 3

    Skim foam

    Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Toasting the Spices

  1. 1

    Heat skillet

    Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Toast spices

    Add cumin, coriander, mustard, and fennel seeds. Toast until fragrant.

    Tip: Avoid burning the spices; they become bitter quickly.

  3. 3

    Grind

    Grind the toasted seeds in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

How to Make Smoked Indian Lentil and Amaranth Soup with Toasted Spices

Total time: 2 h 20 min · Yields 6 servings

  1. 1

    Flavor Building

    Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in ghee until golden.

  2. 2

    Combination

    Add the spice blend along with smoked paprika to the aromatics.

  3. 3

    Final Touches

    Mix sautéed spices into the lentil base, season, and let simmer for 15 more minutes.

Chef's Tips

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

    Can I freeze this soup?

    Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

    What can I use instead of amaranth?

    You can substitute with quinoa or millet for a similar texture.

    How do I make it vegan?

    Use vegetable oil instead of ghee, and skip the yogurt topping.

    Can I reduce the spiciness?

    Adjust the amount of smoked paprika and omit the green chilies if needed.

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