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Simple Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup – For Cozy Nights In

When you crave something warm, comforting, and full of vibrant flavor, this Simple Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup brings together everything you want in a cozy night-in meal. It’s creamy, aromatic, nourishing, and incredibly easy to prepare. With red lentils that melt into a silky texture, bold Thai-inspired flavors from red curry paste, and creamy coconut milk, this soup is both comforting and exciting. Red lentils are one of the best pantry ingredients—they cook quickly, become naturally creamy, and offer plant-based protein and fiber. Paired with fresh ginger, garlic, and onion, they create a rich flavor base that feels deeply satisfying. The coconut milk adds velvety smoothness, while turmeric gives the soup a warm golden color and subtle earthiness. Lime juice brightens everything, soy sauce adds umami, and fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbal finish. This soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, nourishing lunches, or any time you want a nutritious and flavorful meal without spending too much time cooking. It’s vegan-friendly, naturally creamy, budget-friendly, and customizable. Whether you enjoy it thick and hearty or light and brothy, this soup delivers warmth, depth, and comfort in every spoonful. Let’s bring this cozy bowl of flavor to life!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Canned & Broth Ingredients
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp red curry paste
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
Condiments
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
Spices
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
Oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Can opener
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender (optional for smoother texture)
  • Ladle

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and fresh ginger.
  4. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Bloom the Curry Paste and Turmeric
  1. Add the red curry paste and turmeric powder.
  2. Cook 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Add Lentils and Broth
  1. Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot.
  2. Pour in the vegetable broth.
  3. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 4: Simmer
  1. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes until lentils are soft and beginning to break down.
Step 5: Add Coconut Milk
  1. Stir in the coconut milk to create a creamy, velvety texture.
  2. Simmer 5 more minutes.
Step 6: Add Lime and Soy Sauce
  1. Stir in the lime juice and soy sauce for brightness and umami.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
  1. Add salt to taste.
  2. If you want more spice, add additional curry paste.
Step 8: Optional Blending
  1. For a smooth soup:
  2. Blend 2 cups and return to the pot.
  3. Or blend the entire soup.
  4. For a rustic soup:
  5. Leave it unblended.
Step 9: Serve
  1. Ladle into bowls.
  2. Top with chopped cilantro.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy comfort.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store for 4–5 days.
It thickens naturally—add water or broth when reheating.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Stir after reheating to regain smooth consistency.
Reheating
Stovetop: low heat, stir often
Microwave: 1–2 minutes, stir halfway
🥄 Variations
Extra Protein: Add chickpeas or shredded chicken.
Veggie Boost: Add carrots, spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or extra curry paste.
Creamier: Add more coconut milk.
Lower Fat: Use light coconut milk.
Brothier Style: Add 1–2 extra cups vegetable broth.
Thai Basil Upgrade: Add Thai basil or lime zest for more aroma.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Do red lentils need soaking?
No—red lentils cook quickly without soaking.
2. Can I use yellow or green lentils?
Yes, but they take longer to cook and won’t become as creamy.
3. Is this soup spicy?
Mildly—it depends on the curry paste you use.
4. Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes—blend with water to reach desired consistency.
5. Can I make this soup oil-free?
Yes—sauté with a splash of broth instead.
6. How do I make it thicker?
Blend part of the soup or simmer longer.
7. How do I make it thinner?
Add vegetable broth or water.
8. Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
Yes—lime is more traditional, but lemon works.
9. Can I use fresh curry paste?
Absolutely—fresh curry paste gives stronger flavor.
10. What toppings work best?
Cilantro, chili crisp, lime wedges, toasted coconut, or green onions.
🏁 Conclusion
This Simple Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup is everything you want in a cozy, nourishing bowl of comfort—creamy, aromatic, vibrant, and bursting with Thai-inspired flavors. With soft red lentils, bold curry paste, fragrant ginger and garlic, and silky coconut milk, each spoonful delivers warmth and satisfying depth.
Whether you're making dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for a slow, relaxing evening, this recipe offers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s nutritious, vegan-friendly, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Once you try it, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals.
Warm, cozy, flavorful, and nourishing—this is the perfect soup for a peaceful night in.