Name: Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 500 min
Ingredients: 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 3 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 3 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 2 leeks (white and light green parts only), halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 3/4 cup dried yellow or red lentils, picked over and rinsed; 1 piece (4-inch) ginger, peeled and finely grated; 1 teaspoon curry powder (Plus more to sauté garlic); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (For sautéing garlic); 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (Plus more for garnish)

A warm, comforting bowl of soup can make even the coldest days feel cozy and inviting. This Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, packed with nutritious ingredients and comforting flavors that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Slow cooking this delightful combination of sweet potatoes, lentils, and aromatic spices transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary dish. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes mingles beautifully with the earthy flavor of lentils, while the freshness of ginger and cilantro offers a refreshing twist. This soup is perfect not only for those chilly nights but also as a nourishing option to enjoy any day of the week. Its simplicity and flavorful blend will leave you craving more.

Why make this recipe

Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire for many reasons. First and foremost, it highlights the fantastic qualities of the ingredients: the creamy texture of sweet potatoes combined with the hearty lentils makes for a satisfying meal without being overly heavy. Additionally, it’s an incredibly versatile recipe—you can adjust the spices and add other vegetables according to your taste or based on what you have on hand.

Moreover, this recipe harnesses the power of slow cooking, which allows flavors to meld together beautifully over time. The result is a richly flavored soup that requires minimal effort. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it work its magic while you attend to your other tasks throughout the day. The aromatic smell wafting throughout your home as the soup cooks is sure to whet your appetite and fill your space with warmth.

How to make Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup

To craft this delightful soup, you’ll want to start by prepping your vegetables. Peeling and dicing the sweet potato, along with cutting the carrots and celery, sets the stage for a delightful base. When it comes to the leeks, make sure to clean them thoroughly as dirt can often hide between the layers. With your ingredients ready, it’s time for the slow cooker; combine the diced sweet potato, carrot pieces, celery, leeks, and rinsed lentils in the slow cooker bowl. The addition of grated ginger, curry powder, and salt enhances the flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and spice.

Once everything is in the pot, pour in enough water to cover the vegetables—around six cups should do the trick. Close the lid, set it to low heat, and let it cook for approximately eight hours. This slow cooking method allows the ingredients to break down and encourages the development of rich flavors. After the cooking time is completed, you can use a whisk to create a rough puree texture for the soup, depending on your preference. If you like your soup thinner, simply add more hot water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Finally, for the finishing touches, melt some butter in a skillet and sauté slices of garlic with a pinch of curry powder until fragrant. Stir this mixture into the soup along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped cilantro just prior to serving. This final addition brightens the overall flavor, making every spoonful truly delicious.

Ingredients

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
3 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 stalks celery, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 leeks (white and light green parts only), halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 cup dried yellow or red lentils, picked over and rinsed
1 (4-inch) piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
1 teaspoon curry powder
Kosher salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Add sweet potato, carrots, celery, leeks, lentils, ginger, 3/4 teaspoon curry powder, and 1 teaspoon salt to a 4–6 quart slow cooker. Pour in 6 cups water, stir, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours.
Whisk the soup vigorously to create a rough puree (add hot water to thin if needed).
Melt butter in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Cook garlic with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon curry powder until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir the garlic-curry butter into the soup, then add lemon juice and cilantro; season with salt to taste.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6

How to serve Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup

Serving this soup is as delightful as its preparation. Ladle the warm, fragrant soup into bowls, and consider garnishing each bowl with an additional sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. If you are up for it, serving alongside a crusty loaf of bread or a side salad would complement the heartiness of the soup beautifully. The soup’s creamy texture and aromatic flavors make it a comforting choice for lunch or dinner, and it’s an effortless option to impress guests when hosting events.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of coconut milk can add creaminess and a splash of richness. You might also consider sprinkling a few toasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly balances the soup’s inherent sweetness.

How to store Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup

Storing this hearty soup is simple and convenient, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. After your soup has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. The soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy its comforting taste throughout the week. When you’re ready to enjoy a bowl, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze portions of the soup. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, leaving a bit of space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. This way, you can enjoy a warming bowl even on the busiest of days whenever you feel like a quick and hearty meal.

Tips to make Slow-Cooker Sweet Potato–Lentil Soup

When it comes to maximizing flavor and making the most of this recipe, there are a few tips to consider. First, don’t shy away from adjusting the spices. If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or eliminate it altogether.

Another key tip is to focus on the texture of the soup. When whisking, you can achieve a creamy consistency without losing the integrity of all the components. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a smoother soup, you can blend it completely using an immersion blender. This adjustment can cater to different texture preferences, offering versatility in serving.

Additionally, consider incorporating other vegetables into the mix. Spinach, kale, or zucchini can add additional nutrients and flavor. Just be sure to add these delicate greens in the final hour of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and texture. Lastly, garnishing with fresh herbs right before serving enhances both the presentation and flavor profile.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 245 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 290 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of lentils in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Q: Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the butter or replace it with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

Q: Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare all ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Just add them to the slow cooker in the morning and it will be ready by lunchtime!