### Detailed Steps for Making a Curried Lentil Soup in Crock Pot/Slow Cooker
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or any vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced (fresh or canned)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
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### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
- Rinse lentils thoroughly and set aside.
- Chop the onion, mince garlic, and chop carrots and celery into small pieces.
2. **Set Up Your Crock Pot/Slow Cooker:**
- Place a large pot or slow cooker on medium heat to warm up for 1-2 minutes (optional but helps in setting the flavor base).
3. **Cook Aromatics:**
- Add oil to the pot and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. **Add Spices:**
- Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper into the mixture. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more until fragrant.
5. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Pour in the lentils, followed by broth. Mix well.
- Add chopped carrots and celery. Bring to a boil if using an open pot; otherwise, proceed directly with the slow cooker.
6. **Cooking Process:**
- For **Crock Pot**:
- Transfer all ingredients into the crock pot. Set the slow cooker on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours.
- For **Slow Cooker**:
- Place the lid on and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours.
7. **Add Tomatoes:**
- About an hour before serving, add diced tomatoes to your soup.
8. **Simmer for Flavor:**
- Allow the lentils to cook until they are soft and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is well mixed.
9. **Serve Hot:**
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot, either as a main course or a hearty side dish with crusty bread.
10. **Storage Tips:**
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For freezing, allow soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months.
By following these steps, you will enjoy a delicious and comforting curried lentil soup that is both nutritious and flavorful! Perfect for chilly evenings or as part of a hearty meal plan.