| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 283 | 9g | 1g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 12g | 14g | 1.2g |
Why I Love French Soupe de lentilles vertes aux carottes, au cumin et à la coriandre fraîche, agrémentée de crème d’amandes
Every once in a while, a recipe comes along that not only fills your stomach but also touches your soul. That’s precisely what Soupe de lentilles vertes aux carottes, au cumin et à la coriandre fraîche, agrémentée de crème d’amandes does for me. This French recipe encapsulates the kind of comfort and warmth that takes me back to my Midwestern roots, but with a refined European twist.
A Marriage of Cultures
Growing up in Nebraska, my family and I were no strangers to hearty soups, especially on those bitterly cold winter days. What sets this recipe apart is its unique blend of flavors and textures. Green lentils bring a hearty earthiness, while the combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric elevates the dish to a new level of sophistication. It’s a beautiful marriage of the rustic and the refined.
Inspired by Culinary Giants
I must give credit where it’s due. My inspiration for this dish came from renowned French chef Alain Passard, known for his dedication to farm-to-table cooking. His approach to ingredients and his ability to bring out their natural flavors is something I strive to emulate in my own kitchen. If you’re curious to explore more of his work, I highly recommend checking out his Instagram page where he shares daily inspirations and culinary tips.
Perfect Pairings
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of rustic bread or a light, zesty salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it alongside a French dish like Ratatouille or even a simplified take on Coq au Vin. The versatility of this soup makes it a great starter, but it can also stand alone as a hearty main course, especially when you’re looking for something that’s both nourishing and delicious.
One final touch that truly makes this recipe shine is the almond cream. It adds a layer of richness and a hint of nuttiness that perfectly complements the spices. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice brighten up every spoonful, making each bite a complex yet harmonious experience.
So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s comforting yet sophisticated, simple yet flavorful, give Soupe de lentilles vertes aux carottes, au cumin et à la coriandre fraîche, agrémentée de crème d’amandes a try. It’s a dish that brings a touch of French elegance to the heartland table, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your home just as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups green lentils
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup almond cream
- Juice of 1 lemon
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Method
Step One
Rinse the green lentils under cold water and set them aside.
Step Two
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step Three
Add the carrots and garlic to the pot. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Four
Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to release their aromas.
Step Five
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender.
Step Six
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh cilantro, lemon juice, and almond cream.
Step Seven
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also transfer portions of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
Step Eight
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
