Red Lentil & Coconut Soup Recipe
Introduction
This red lentil and coconut soup is a comforting and nourishing dish packed with flavor and vibrant ingredients. It’s easy to make, wholesome, and perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients
- 100g red lentils
- 1 heaped tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp coarsely grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 400ml can coconut milk
- 2 leeks, well washed and sliced
- 2 handfuls baby spinach (approx 50g/2oz)
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Step 1: Tip the red lentils into a large pan and add the turmeric, grated ginger, and sliced garlic.
- Step 2: Pour in the vegetable stock, cover the pan, and simmer gently for 15 minutes until the lentils are softened.
- Step 3: Stir in the coconut milk and sliced leeks, then cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the baby spinach and cook just until wilted.
- Step 5: Spoon the soup into bowls and squeeze fresh lime juice over each serving before enjoying.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the turmeric and ginger briefly in the pan before adding the lentils and stock.
- Use fresh lime zest to garnish the soup for an added citrus aroma.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Replace baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture.
Storage
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. To keep the spinach fresh, you can add it just before serving if reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?
Red lentils are preferred because they cook quickly and break down to create a creamy texture, but yellow lentils can be used as a substitute. Brown or green lentils will take longer to cook and won’t become as soft.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Red Lentil & Coconut Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and nutritious red lentil and coconut soup, infused with turmeric, ginger, and garlic, simmered to perfection with leeks and spinach, and brightened with fresh lime juice. This vibrant soup combines creamy coconut milk with wholesome lentils, making it a satisfying vegan dish that supports gut health and immunity.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 100g red lentils
- 1 heaped tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp coarsely grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1l vegetable stock
- 400ml can coconut milk
- 2 leeks, well washed and sliced
- 2 handfuls baby spinach (approx 50g/2oz)
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: Tip the red lentils into a large pan and add the turmeric, grated ginger, and sliced garlic. Pour in the vegetable stock, then cover the pan and simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the lentils to soften completely.
- Add Coconut Milk and Leeks: Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the sliced leeks. Cover the pan again and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the leeks soften.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the pan and cook just until it wilts, preserving its bright color and nutrients.
- Serve with Lime: Spoon the soup into bowls and squeeze fresh lime juice over each serving to add a refreshing, zesty finish.
Notes
- The active oils in garlic have antibiotic properties, supporting the body’s fight against infections.
- Coconut milk contains lauric acid, a fat that helps balance gut bacteria by inhibiting harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Limes, rich in vitamin C, support liver detoxification. The zest and skin contain potent beneficial compounds if you choose to add them.
- This soup is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary requirements.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion – Inspired by Indian and Southeast Asian flavors
Keywords: red lentil soup, coconut soup, vegan soup, turmeric soup, healthy soup, gut health, immunity boosting soup

