Indian Lentil Soup

Name: Indian Lentil Soup
Yield: serves 10
Ingredients: 1 pound red lentils (see Note); 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, minced; 1 celery rib, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 serrano chile, seeded and minced; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 1/2 cups peeled, seeded, and chopped plum tomato (fresh or canned); 1 bay leaf; Kosher salt; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish; 1 teaspoon garam masala (Indian spice blend)

December 22, 2011

As Cakebread Cellars expanded sales overseas, we began inviting chefs from abroad to participate in the Workshop. Predictably, some new and intriguing scents soon emerged from our kitchen. This warmly spiced lentil soup is Brian’s invention, but he devised it after working with Indian chef Sujan Mukherjee at the 2008 Workshop and observing his spicing. Now Brian makes this wholesome soup with the Napa elementary school students that he teaches regularly, and he demonstrates the recipe at our employees’ wellness classes.

Cooks' Note

Red lentils are available at Indian markets, natural foods stores, and some well-stocked supermarkets. Despite the name, they are closer to salmon-pink in color.

Recipe notes

Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce

A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon

This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.

Classic French Vinaigrette

Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.

Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.

Super Seedy Power Cookies

As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.

Speedy Chicken Stroganoff

This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.

Meatball Tagine

Warming harissa and cinnamon, briny olives, and sweet dried fruit make up the flavorful base for this weeknight-friendly take on tagine.