| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 324 | 6g | 1g | 49g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 15g | 19g | 0.8g |
From the heart of Portland, Maine, where the vibrant seafood scene has shaped my culinary prowess, I am always intrigued by recipes that incorporate wholesome, earthly tastes with a dose of exotic spice. This is why the Curried Tepary Bean and Lentil Soup holds a special place in my recipe book. Combining nutrient-rich beans and lentils with an array of vegetables and invigorating spices, this soup offers a symphony of flavors that both enlivens the senses and nourishes the body.
Health Benevolence of this Soup
Though my gastronomical roots may be by the ocean’s edge, I fully appreciate the health advantages offered by this hinterland-inspired dish. The blend of tepary beans and lentils provides a potent source of plant-based protein and fiber, while the colorful array of veggies contributes an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Not to forget, garlic and spices like turmeric and cumin further enhance the nutritional profile as they contain potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these ingredients make for a hearty and healthful bowlful that’s both satisfying and rejuvenating.
An Echo of Exotic Cuisine
Moving beyond the shores of New England, this Curried Tepary bean and Lentil Soup resonates with the exotic melodies of Indian cuisine. It comes as no surprise that curry powder, turmeric, and cumin form an integral part of the base in this dish, transporting your taste buds to the enchanting street markets of India. Interestingly, its earthy texture and warm aroma bring to mind a hearty dal, a popular lentil-based staple across the Indian subcontinent.
As a perennial culinary enthusiast, I love pairing this soup with a crispy, crusty hearth bread or a light, refreshing garden salad. These combinations promise a fulfilling meal, bringing together different components of flavors, textures, and altogether ravishing the palate. Thus, whether you’re a seasoned foodie like myself, or just exploring your culinary boundaries, the Curried Tepary Bean and Lentil Soup will surely be a brilliant addition to your cooking repertoire.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup dried tepary beans
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Method
Step One
Start by washing and picking through your dried tepary beans and lentils to remove any small stones or debris. Once cleaned, place them in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans and lentils.
Step Two
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the vegetables. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
Step Four
Add the soaked and drained tepary beans and lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices.
Step Five
Pour the vegetable broth over the beans, vegetables, and spices. Add the bay leaf and diced tomato. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans and lentils are tender.
Step Six
Once the beans and lentils are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the bay leaf. Add the chopped fresh spinach to the soup and stir well until the spinach wilts. Check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step Seven
Serve the Curried Tepary Bean and Lentil Soup hot. Enjoy your meal!
