Hairy Bikers Red Pepper and Lentil Soup
Hairy Bikers Red Pepper and Lentil Soup is a wholesome, vegetable-based soup that features sweet red peppers and tender lentils. The red peppers add a natural sweetness, while the lentils make the soup thick and satisfying. This soup is a wonderful blend of flavors with a rich, creamy texture despite being dairy-free, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians alike.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering and blending
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- Red bell peppers (2 large, chopped): Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Red lentils (150g): Provides protein, texture, and thickness to the soup.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds depth and flavor to the base of the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Carrot (1 medium, chopped): Enhances the sweetness and adds additional nutrients.
- Vegetable stock (1 liter): Forms the base of the soup and brings all the flavors together.
- Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Adds richness and intensifies the flavor of the soup.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables.
- Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds warmth and a subtle spice.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Gives the soup a smoky depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish.
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the red peppers: Stir in the chopped red bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the spices and tomato paste: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add the lentils and stock: Rinse the lentils under cold water and add them to the pan. Pour in the vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the lentils are soft and the vegetables are fully cooked.
- Blend the soup: Remove the soup from the heat and use a hand blender to blend it until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until creamy.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.