Go Back
Spiced Lentil and Turnip Soup Recipe

Spiced Lentil and Turnip Soup

A warm, comforting soup with red lentils, tender turnips, and a blend of fragrant aromatics. Brightened with lemon and fresh dill, this soup is naturally creamy, nourishing, and perfect for chilly evenings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Soup, Starter
Cuisine: Comfort food, International
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups small turnips peeled and diced (swap: potatoes or parsnips)
  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed (swap: cooked white beans)
  • 1 medium onion chopped (swap: leeks)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth mild
  • 1/2 cup light coconut milk or unsweetened plant milk optional, for creaminess
  • 1 tsp celery seeds
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook 4–5 minutes until glossy and fragrant.
  2. Stir in diced turnips and red lentils. Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk (if using). Scrape the pot to loosen any fond.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer 15–20 minutes until lentils soften and turnips are tender.
  4. Use an immersion blender to puree half the soup for a chowder-like texture, leaving some chunks for bite.
  5. Stir in lemon zest, juice, celery seeds, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Adjust consistency with additional broth if too thick.
  6. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

For extra depth, roast diced turnips and carrots at 375°F for 20–35 minutes and fold in after simmering. Can add shredded cooked chicken or plant-based protein for a heartier option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creamy texture.