How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, this soup can be made a day in advance; flavors will deepen as it sits.

What can I substitute for rooibos tea?

If unavailable, use a mild herbal tea like honeybush or a light black tea.

Is there a way to make this soup spicier?

Add more red chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for extra heat.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Adjust seasoning after reheating.

South African Rooibos-Infused Lentil Soup with Citrus

Name: South African Rooibos-Infused Lentil Soup with Citrus
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion — finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic — minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 cup red lentils — rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups water; 2 rooibos tea bags; Juice of 2 oranges; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger — grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Pinch of red chili flakes — optional

A vibrant, fragrant soup that combines the earthy notes of rooibos with the refreshing zing of citrus.

This comforting and flavorful soup is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of South Africa, offering a unique blend of spices, rooibos tea, and a burst of citrus.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion — finely chopped

3 cloves garlic — minced

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric

For the Lentils

1 cup red lentils — rinsed

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cups water

2 rooibos tea bags

For the Citrus Infusion

Juice of 2 oranges

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon fresh ginger — grated

For the Seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Pinch of red chili flakes — optional

Preparation

Preparing the Soup Base

Heat the oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté onions

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Add spices

Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric, cooking until fragrant.

Cooking the Lentils

Add lentils

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot.

Add liquids

Pour in vegetable broth and water, then bring to a boil.

Steep rooibos

Reduce heat and add rooibos tea bags, allowing them to steep for 10 minutes before removing.

Be careful not to crush the tea bags in the soup. Pro Tip: Let the lid remain partially open while simmering to control the thickness of the soup.

Cooking Process

Simmering the Soup

Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Infusing the Citrus

After removing the tea bags, stir in orange juice, lemon zest, and ginger.

Final Seasoning

Adjust salt, pepper, and if desired, add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

Plating & Serving