Spicy Coconut and Legume Soup

It actually doesn’t have to be a soup. You could serve it over your favorite grain or mini pasta and it would be super hearty and delicious.

Folks, it is COLD up here! The heater has been going on and off pretty much nonstop throughout the day. Since tonight is going to be my first practice with the Hudson Valley Horrors (more on that later), I thought there should be a delicious meal for Phil when he gets home. And I just ate some, so I KNOW it’s good.

Originally planning on making something like this Coconut and Red Lentil dish, I realized I didn’t have enough red lentils. I used half a cup of split mung beans and half a cup of red lentils to even everything out.

Spicy Coconut and Legume Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or other neutral oil…or ghee if you have it!)
• 1 tablespoon cumin, crushed from whole pods
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• pinch of cayenne pepper (more if you like it spicy)
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 2-3 cups water
• 1/2 cup split mung beans
• 1/2 cup red lentils
• salt, to taste
• 1/2 can coconut milk (light or regular)
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

To Do:

1. Heat up your oil in a large saucepan. Once hot, add the crushed cumin seeds (powdered is OK too, just not as flavorful). Toast for about a minute and add garlic. Lower heat and cook until garlic is golden brown.
2. Add the other spices and let toast for about 30 seconds or so, this is a very quick process!
3. Add the tomatoes, 2 cups of water and the beans. Bring to a boil and then put a lid on it and reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook for 20 minutes. Check back occassionally. Are things looking dry? Sticking to the pot? Add some more water!
5. Taste. Are the beans done? Add the coconut milk and taste. Does it need more salt? More cayenne? Add at will! If the texture is too thick – add more water! Maybe you want it thick, so you can serve it over a grain. Have at it!
6. Garnish with LOTS of cilantro and maybe a dollop of sour cream. Super easy, filling and warm!