This Turmeric Lentil Soup is a vibrant vegan soup made with immunity-boosting turmeric that’s ready in just 40 minutes.

I make this turmeric lentil soup all the time! The flavours are pure comfort in a bowl, it’s super simple to throw together, and it always hits the spot.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Healthy & comforting: Packed with turmeric and nutrient-rich lentils, this vegan soup supports your immune system while keeping it light, satisfying and comforting.
- Easy & flavourful: No fuss, simple steps and full of flavour. It’s perfect for any day of the week!
Ingredients and substitutions
- Ingredient – substitution details.
- Olive oil – or any other neutral cooking oil like canola or avocado oil.
- Onions – you can use yellow or white onions.
- Carrots – parsnip has a similar texture but a slightly different taste.
- Celery – double up on the carrots or leave them out altogether.
- Garlic – jarred garlic or garlic powder would work in a pinch.
- Ginger – you can also try using ground ginger if you don’t have any fresh ginger.
- Coconut milk – substitute for light coconut milk if you want to cut the calories or try soy milk (although it won’t be as creamy).
- Can of diced tomatoes – you could also use freshly diced tomatoes, just make sure to add in the juices as well.
- Vegetable broth – for a non-vegan option, you can use chicken broth.
- Turmeric – saffron is an alternative, but is sweeter and doesn’t have the same healing properties as turmeric.
- Cumin – ground coriander would also work here.
- Red lentils – French or green lentils are another option.
- Spinach – any other greens will work like Swiss chard or mustard greens.
- Lemon juice – if you don’t have any lemon juice, you could also try lime juice.
How to make turmeric lentil soup
Step 1: Sauté the base.
Sauté the onions, carrots and celery, then the garlic, ginger and seasonings.
Step 2: Add more ingredients.
Add coconut milk, tomatoes, broth and lentils, bring to a boil and cook.
Step 3: Add remaining ingredients.
Add the spinach and lemon juice and stir until combined.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
Serve in your favourite bowl and enjoy every spoonful!

Recipe tips and variations
Here are my tips and variations to ensure this turmeric lentil soup turns out perfect every time:
- Sauté aromatics first: Cooking the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, ginger, and turmeric brings out big flavour.
- Use fresh turmeric if you can: It gives a brighter, earthier flavour, but dried works in a pinch.
- Season at the end: Taste before serving and add extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the soup.
- Veggie boost: Stir in kale, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrients and texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for a subtle kick.
- More protein: Consider adding cooked chickpeas or cubed tofu for an added boost of protein.
Frequently asked questions
Is lentil soup healthy?
Yes! Lentils are full of protein, fibre, and nutrients like iron, potassium, and calcium. Plus, the turmeric adds an immune-boosting kick. It’s light, nourishing, and actually keeps you satisfied.
How much turmeric should I add?
You really don’t need much. One tablespoon gives you all the flavour and health benefits you need. Adding more can make it a bit strong, so stick with a tablespoon and you’re good to go.
How can I make the soup creamier?
This recipe uses coconut milk to give it a creamy base, but if you like it even richer, add a bit more coconut milk. You can also blend part or all of the soup for a silky texture.

Storing and reheating
Storing: Portion the soup into individual containers and keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Glass meal prep bowls work great because you can reheat single servings without having to scoop from a big bowl.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Freezing: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months in freezer safe containers. I love Souper Cubes!
Defrosting and reheating: Defrost in the fridge overnight, or heat from frozen in the microwave for 6-8 minutes, stirring halfway.


Turmeric Lentil Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 3 stalks celery diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh turmeric minced; or 1 tsp dried
- 13 oz full fat coconut milk
- 13 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 4 cups spinach chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice preferably fresh from a lemon
Instructions
- Melt coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, carrots and celery, sauteeing for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, salt and pepper, sauteeing another minute until fragrant.
- Add remaining ingredients except for spinach and lemon juice, bringing to a boil and cooking for 30-35 minutes or under lentils are tender.
- Stir in spinach and lemon juice, then serve and enjoy!



Comments & Reviews
Kristina says
How do I find the previous Instant Pot version of this recipe with the red lentils? This used to be a staple for our family but it looks like the recipe has been updated and is slightly different now. Thanks!
Taylor Stinson says
From time to time I make improvements to recipes and you’re right, I did make a couple change! I believe this new version uses 1 onion instead of 2, 1 can of coconut milk instead of 2 and 1 cup of brown lentils instead of 1 cup of red lentils. You can make the adjustments back to the old recipe then add everything to the Instant Pot, cooking on high for 5 minutes and doing a quick release of the pressure.
Chloe says
I made this the other night and it was IMPECCABLE. Can’t wait to have this for dinner again!
Taylor Stinson says
I’m so happy you loved it!!! 😀
Emma says
My instant pot broke, and I can’t afford a new one. Might you be able to help with instructions on how I can make this without the Instant Pot? Many thanks in advance
Cathy W says
This IS the best lentil soup. No competition!!
I’ve made it dozens of times and am usually asked for the recipe.
Just made it for a potluck at the office and it was a total hit.
Katie Didow says
I’m so happy to hear this, Cathy! What a compliment! So glad you enjoy the recipe!
Salomée says
This has been my go-to for a dahl-like dish for years, even as I don’t have an instant pot anymore ! The flavors blend so well together, it’s warm and comforting, it’s a great healthy and protein-filled option for vegetarians and it’s SO easy, even on the stove without an instant pot. Thank you for this delicious recipe
Tara Stevens says
This Turmeric Lentil Soup is literally a cup of sunshine! So easy & absolutely delicious 😋. It knocked our socks off good. Definitely a new favourite. I used frozen spinach pucks because that’s all I had. Thank you again for another awesome recipe 👍👍💚