Name: Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons yellow curry powder; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock (use vegetable stock for vegan); 2 (13.5-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk, shaken; 1 ½ pounds sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 ½ cups brown lentils; 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt, plus more to taste; 4 cups packed stemmed and roughly torn curly kale

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 1 review

There is something truly magical about the Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort dish for any day of the week. Imagine a creamy, rich coconut curry broth brimming with tender lentils and sweet potatoes, perfectly spiced to warm you from the inside out. This soup not only tastes decadent but is incredibly nourishing and quick to whip up, making it a fabulous option for a wholesome, vegan dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a wooden spoon holding a scoop of thick lentil stew over a white pot filled with the same stew. The stew has a creamy, light yellow broth with visible chunks of orange carrots, green leafy kale, and whole lentils that are soft and golden-brown. The kale pieces are scattered throughout, adding a dark green color. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, and the scene is bright and clear, showing the texture of the stew and ingredients well. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe plays a key role in building its unforgettable flavor and texture—each simple element coming together to create something truly special.

Extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing aromatics and lending a silky richness to the base.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth once softened.
Fresh ginger: Infuses a warm, zesty brightness that elevates the curry notes.
Garlic cloves: Brings savory enhancement and irresistible aroma.
Yellow curry powder: The backbone of flavor, delivering that quintessential curry warmth and vibrancy.
Ground cinnamon: A subtle but essential hint of sweetness and spice to balance the curry’s complexity.
Vegetable stock: Provides a rich, comforting liquid base without overpowering the other flavors.
Full-fat coconut milk: Creates the creamy, luscious consistency that defines this soup.
Sweet potatoes: Tender and naturally sweet, they add body and color.
Brown lentils: The hearty protein that makes the soup satisfyingly filling.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors while maintaining a clean taste.
Curly kale: Adds a pop of vibrant green and a mild earthy crunch when wilted.

How to Make Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large stockpot until it glistens. Gently cook the chopped yellow onion until it becomes soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. This slow sauté draws out the onion’s natural sweetness, setting the flavor foundation. Then stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking just until they release their fragrant aromas, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the aromatic base that makes the soup so comforting.

Step 2: Add Spices

Sprinkle in the yellow curry powder and ground cinnamon, stirring constantly so those spices bloom in the warm oil and coat every bite with layers of flavor. The combination of curry warmth with a whisper of cinnamon elevates the soup’s profile beyond the ordinary.

Step 3: Stir in Liquids and Main Ingredients

Pour in the vegetable stock and full-fat coconut milk, stirring to combine everything beautifully. Then add the cubed sweet potatoes, brown lentils, and sea salt, giving the pot a good stir. The coconut milk gives the broth a silky texture while the lentils and sweet potatoes soften and absorb those luscious curry flavors with every simmer.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Turn the heat up to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the lentils and sweet potatoes to become tender. This simmering melds the flavors together and creates that soul-soothing richness you crave.

Step 5: Finish with Kale

Once the lentils and potatoes are perfectly cooked, uncover the pot and stir in the stemmed and roughly torn curly kale. Let it wilt gently for 3 to 5 minutes, adding a fresh, earthy contrast that complements the creamy broth and hearty ingredients.

How to Serve Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy soup served in a white bowl with a metal spoon on the right side, resting inside the bowl. The soup has three main layers: a light yellow creamy broth base; medium-sized chunks of orange sweet potato scattered throughout; and dark green leafy kale and fresh chopped herbs sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch. On the upper right side, a piece of toasted bread with a golden-brown crust partially dips into the soup. The background surface is white marble. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The best way to garnish this soup is with fresh, zesty notes that brighten its rich flavors. Try a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or even some toasted coconut flakes for a delightful texture contrast. These simple touches add freshness and a little pop of flavor that makes each spoonful sing.

Side Dishes

This soup is wonderfully versatile, but if you’d like to round out the meal, fragrant basmati rice or warm, fluffy naan bread are fantastic sidekicks. They help soak up the creamy coconut curry broth and add an extra layer of comfort to the dish. A light cucumber salad can also bring a crisp, cool balance alongside the warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe in rustic bowls topped with a swirl of coconut milk and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed peanuts. A small side of pickled vegetables can introduce a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creamy texture. Don’t hesitate to play with colors and textures—the soup is a wonderful canvas!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better after resting because the flavors continue to deepen and meld.

Freezing

Because this Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe holds up so well, freezing is a great way to prep meals ahead of time. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it. The kale might lose a bit of its brightness but will still provide a lovely texture.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown lentils?

Absolutely! Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, giving the soup a creamier texture. Just keep a close eye on cooking times so they don’t turn to mush.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be sure to check your curry powder and stock to avoid any hidden gluten additives.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely! If you love a little heat, add some chopped fresh chili, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce during the spice stage or just before serving.

How can I add more protein?

While lentils provide a good amount of protein, adding chickpeas or tofu cubes can boost the protein content and add interesting textures to the soup.

Will this soup spoil if left out overnight?

For safety, it’s best not to leave the soup at room temperature for more than two hours. To keep it fresh and safe, refrigerate leftovers promptly in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

This Coconut Curry Lentil Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and absolutely bursting with comforting flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this soup delivers such satisfying taste and nourishment that it will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe arsenal. Give it a try and watch everyone ask for seconds!