A perfect and easy soup to prepare on a cold Spring day! Curried lentil soup with swiss chard combines the flavors of curry powder and cumin with the earthy taste of lentils and the bitter and sweet flavor of Swiss chard. This combination of spices and ingredients creates a delicious and warming soup. 

Curry powder blends of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger, are believed to have originated in India. It was brought to Europe by British colonizers in the 18th century. 

The curry powder, ground coriander and cumin seeds used to make this delectable lentil and Swiss chard soup have been used in cuisine for generations. Did you realize, though, that curry varies greatly from one culture to the next? 

Spices including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili peppers are ground together to create the curry powder used in Indian cooking. There is a wide range of regional variations in this mixture. Lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and shrimp paste are used to create curry paste popular in Thailand. Japanese curry roux is often created with flour, butter, and curry powder. 

As with the ingredients, the origins of curry are diverse. Trading with India in the 16th century, Portuguese merchants brought back with them a unique combination of spices. As it reached other countries on the continent, it was adapted to fit local tastes. Over time, curry powder became popular in many Western countries in various dishes, including soups.

Now, in the present day, curry is a universally adored taste in many different cultures. Lentils are a staple food in many cultures, and when paired with the warming spices of curry powder in this curried lentil soup with Swiss chard, the result is a pleasant and filling soup. Swiss chard is a great source of vitamins and minerals, and it’s added to this dish to make it healthier. 

This wonderful curried lentil soup with Swiss chard is a great place to start learning about the intriguing history and many varieties of curry. This recipe is versatile and can take on different flavors depending on the curry you choose. Regardless, It’ll make you feel cozy and satisfy your appetite at the same time.

The addition of Swiss chard to curried lentil soup is a more recent development, as Swiss chard was not used in Western cuisine until the 20th century. But, Swiss chard has been grown and eaten in the Mediterranean region for centuries and is a popular ingredient in Italian and Greek cooking.

Today, curried lentil soup with Swiss chard is a popular dish in many parts of the world.

Health Benefits:

• High in fiber: Lentils and Swiss’s chard are both excellent sources of fiber, which can help regulate digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and keep you feeling full longer.
• Rich in protein: Lentils are a great vegetarian source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues in the body.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals: Swiss chard is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. Lentils are also a good source of iron and other essential minerals.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The curry spices used in this soup, such as turmeric and cumin, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
• May promote heart health: The fiber and nutrients in lentils and Swiss chard may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Supports immune function: The vitamins and minerals in Swiss chard and lentils, such as vitamin C and zinc, can help support immune function and protect against illness.
• May help with weight management: The high fiber and protein content in this soup may help you feel full and satisfied, which could aid in weight management.

Ingredient Substitute:

• Olive oil: avocado oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, vegetable oil or sunflower oil.
• Onion: shallots, leeks, or scallions (green onions).
• Carrots: parsnips, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash.
• Celery: fennel, bok choy, or green bell peppers.
• Red bell pepper: green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, or poblano pepper.
• Garlic cloves: garlic powder, minced shallots, or minced ginger.
• Curry powder: garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, or paprika.
• Cayenne: red pepper flakes, hot sauce, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
• Ground cumin: ground coriander, chili powder, or curry powder.
• Minced fresh ginger root: ground ginger, minced garlic, or minced shallots.
• Red lentils: brown lentils, green lentils, or yellow split peas.
• Vegetable stock or chicken stock: water or vegetable broth.
• Can coconut milk: be heavy cream, half and half, almond milk, or soy milk.
• Swiss chard: spinach, kale, or collard greens.
• Fresh cilantro and basil: parsley, mint, or scallions (green onions).