SPICED RED LENTIL & CARROT SOUP WITH CRISPY CHICKPEAS

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It’s cold out there, and I'm finding myself gravitating towards warming, comfort foods.  To take the edge off this Winter chill, I’m making this spiced lentil & carrot soup.  The crispy chickpeas give this that fancy touch & life we need for these cold-weather months.

SPICED RED LENTIL & CARROT SOUP WITH CRISPY CHICKPEAS (SERVES 4)

For Chickpeas:

  • 15 oz. chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Sea salt to taste

For Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 sweet onion,
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 32 oz. vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1.5 lb. carrots, skinned + chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon parsley
  • Sea Salt to taste

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.  Add 2 can of drained chickpeas to a large mixing bowl.  Add cayenne, cumin, coriander, sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil.  Stir to coat, then add to a foil-lined baking sheet.  Roast for 35-45 minutes or until browned & crispy.

In a saucepan, add olive oil, over medium high heat.  Add onion and garlic, stirring for 5-7 minutes or until softened.  Add chopped carrots and stir together for another 5 minutes or until carrots begin to soften.  Then, add broth, herbs and lentils.  Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cover. 

Cook at a low simmer until carrots are tender and softened.  Then, using a food processor or blender, puree mixture until smooth.  Top with roasted chickpeas and a pinch of cayenne.

 

 

ROASTED YAMS WITH ALMOND MEAL, PARMESAN & CORIANDER

On my weekends, I have much more time to dedicate to snacks.  During the weekday, my snacks often involve shoving almonds down until my blood sugar stabilizes which is never an inspired act.  On my days off, I can give a little more luxury to snacktime which is my favorite part of the afternoon.  This time I roasted yams with almond meal, parmesan and coriander.  A simple snack for the blood sugar and the soul.

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