Curry Lentil Soup (In a Jar)

This curry lentil soup in a jar is one of the most convenient healthy meals you’ll ever make. It requires only water and minimal effort. It has two types of lentils with warming spices and a hint of coconut. Simply pour the jar contents into a saucepan, add water, and simmer for 30 minutes while your kitchen fills with an aromatic curry scent.

What makes this recipe special isn’t just its simplicity; it’s the thoughtful balance of flavors that develop as the split red lentils break down to create a naturally creamy base, while the heartier brown lentils hold their shape. The coconut adds subtle texture and richness without overwhelming the warming spices.

Origins

A recipe in a jar – have you heard of it? It’s a concept I first encountered a number of years ago while working at a zero-waste food store. They stocked several “recipes in jars” – dry ingredient mixes that usually required fresh additions like vegetables, eggs, or dairy to complete.

The idea stuck with me, especially when we first started our tiny house accommodation in the middle of nowhere. I kept thinking about creating something like this for guests who might find themselves stranded without realizing just how far they were from the nearest grocer.

I tried sourcing ready-made products, but they all required additional components that complicated the whole point. So into the “too hard basket” it went.

So, after years of contemplating this concept, I’ve finally created a recipe that needs only water and minimal effort. The method is so simple: pour the jar contents into a saucepan, add water, and simmer for 30 minutes. That’s it. If you have time and energy, sautéing an onion in some oil first will elevate it, but it’s completely optional. You can also throw in some veggies or rice, but again, it’s not necessary. This is a great base soup with still plenty of flavor.

Ingredients

You can batch-make these jars as thoughtful gifts for friends (like I did), or prepare several for yourself to keep in the pantry for those nights when cooking feels impossible. Trust me, future-you will be incredibly grateful. AND the best part is that it’s ridiculously budget-friendly.

It’s perfect for:

• New parents navigating those overwhelming early months
• Busy professionals with demanding schedules
• Camping trips and remote travel adventures
• University students in tiny dorm kitchens
• Emergency meal prep when life gets chaotic
• Thoughtful housewarming or care package gifts
• Anyone recovering from illness who needs nourishing, simple meals

For you to make it, it only requires 5 minutes to place all ingredients in the jar, and it’s ready! Perfect as a last-minute grab-and-go gift or meal for the road if you’re traveling to an accommodation.

Layers

Variations

Flavor boosters:

• Sauté diced onion, garlic, and ginger before adding the jar contents for a more complex base.
• Add fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, red or yellow bell peppers (capsicums), or leafy greens in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Stir in cooked quinoa, brown rice, or small pasta for extra heartiness.
• Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro (coriander) for brightness.
• Add a dollop of coconut yogurt or tahini for creaminess.

Spice variations:

• Create a smoky version by adding ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to the jar mix.
• For Thai-inspired flavors, replace curry powder with Thai red curry paste (add during cooking).
• Add a pinch of cinnamon and cardamom to deepen the warming winter spices.

Texture play:

• Blend half the cooked soup for a partially smooth consistency.
• Add quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn in the final minutes.
• Stir in some coconut milk during the last 5 minutes for ultra-creaminess.

Storage

The jar: The assembled jars can be stored in a cool, dry pantry for several months – making them perfect for emergency meal prep or gift-giving. Make sure all ingredients are completely dry before jarring to prevent spoilage.

Cooked soup: Once cooked, the soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months in portion-sized containers.

Gift basket idea: Create beautiful gift sets by pairing the soup jars with a small bottle of good olive oil, some artisanal crackers, or a packet of your favorite herbal tea.

If you’re gifting it on the same day as you make it, some fresh cilantro (coriander), a lime, and some fresh bread will complete this basket. It will make the perfect nourishment package.

Serving Ideas

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty sourdough or flatbread.

You can also create a cozy meal by serving alongside roasted root vegetables tossed with herbs, or a crisp winter salad with pomegranate seeds and toasted nuts.

BONUS: I’ve made a pretty label that you can print out and tie around your jar. You can duplicate it on an A4 page, and print multiple at the same time. Find it here.

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