Easy, Healthy & Vegan Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale
This Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale is a delicious, comforting, and protein-packed soup that will warm your soul and nourish your body. Made with healthy pantry staples like kidney beans, fresh kale, onions, and warming curry spices, this easy vegan soup is not only gluten-free and dairy-free, but it’s also packed with flavor, fiber, and plant-based protein.
This red bean soup recipe is a must-try for those following a vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based diet. It’s meal prep-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch.
What makes this Curried Red Bean Soup special? It’s incredibly versatile, naturally anti-inflammatory, and deeply satisfying with every bite, thanks to turmeric and garlic. Also, adding kale not only boosts nutrition but also adds a delicious texture that pairs beautifully with the tender beans and aromatic spices.
This delicious vegan comfort food bowl is one of the best ways to enjoy healthy bean recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. If you love dishes like lentil stew, chickpea stew, or vegetable bean soup, you’ll definitely love this delicious blend of curry and red beans.
Related: Low-Fat Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe
🥣 Why Everyone Love This Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale
This delicious plant-based soup is full of flavor, easy to make, and loaded with wholesome ingredients like protein-rich kidney beans, anti-inflammatory curry spices, and iron-packed kale—making it one of the best healthy soups for cold weather or weeknight dinners.
Here’s why this red bean curry soup deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:
✅ Easy One-Pot Meal
This is a true one-pot vegan recipe, which means less mess and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned home cook, you’ll appreciate how effortless it is to prepare.
✅ Packed with Plant-Based Protein
With over 15 grams of plant protein per serving (thanks to the red beans), this soup is both filling and nourishing, making it ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to eat more meatless meals.
✅ Vegan, Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free
This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s completely vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free (if desired), making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.
✅ Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Staple Ingredients
Made with canned kidney beans, vegetable broth, and everyday spices like curry powder, cumin, and garlic, this is a cheap and easy vegan soup that won’t break the bank.
✅ Meal Prep & Freezer Friendly
This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping, healthy lunch ideas, or busy weeknight dinners. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it all week long!
✅ Flavorful & Comforting
The warm curry spices, tender kale, and rich texture from the red beans make this soup taste like it simmered all day—without the wait. It’s the definition of vegan comfort food.
✅ Customizable & Versatile
Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, lentils, or even coconut milk for a creamier twist. You can also swap kale for spinach or collards. This is a flexible recipe that works with what you have.
Suggested: Chopped Honer Salad With Jalapeno-Ranch Dressing
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need for Curried Red Bean Soup
This easy vegan red bean soup is made with wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients! It’s plant-based, high in fiber and protein, and perfect for a quick, cozy meal. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Rich in plant-based protein and iron – the base of this hearty soup.
Adds warm, earthy flavor – essential for this Indian-inspired bean soup.
Loaded with vitamin K and antioxidants – adds color and nutrition.
Enhances flavor and supports immunity – a vegan soup essential.
Aromatic base that adds savory depth to this vegan curry soup.
Brings brightness and acidity – balances the earthy curry flavor.
Creates a savory soup base – use homemade or store-bought.
For sautéing – or skip for an oil-free, whole-food plant-based version.
Season to your liking – bring out all the bold, warming flavors.
🥄 Optional Add-ins: Coconut milk for creaminess, cayenne pepper for spice, or squeeze of lime for brightness.
✨ Tip: This soup is even better the next day – perfect for vegan meal prep!
Suggested: Hot Honey Baked Sweet Potatoes
🥣 How to Make Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale (Step-by-Step)
Making this hearty Curried Red Bean Soup is a breeze. It’s a one-pot vegan recipe loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and bold curry flavor. Follow these easy steps to enjoy a healthy, comforting bowl of goodness!
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant and translucent — about 3-4 minutes.
- Add spices: Stir in 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat). Toast spices for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. (Boosts the curry flavor profile!)
- Stir in the tomatoes: Pour in 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
- Add beans and broth: Add 2 cans (15 oz each) of drained and rinsed red kidney beans along with 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes uncovered. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken naturally.
- Add chopped kale: Stir in 3 cups of chopped fresh kale and cook for another 5–7 minutes until wilted but still vibrant. Kale adds antioxidants and a beautiful texture.
- Optional creaminess: For a creamy texture, blend half the soup using an immersion blender or transfer half to a blender, then stir it back in.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a splash of lemon juice or coconut milk for added depth.
🔥 Tips for the Best Curried Red Bean Soup
- Use canned beans for convenience, or soak and cook dry beans for a richer flavor.
- Swap kale with spinach or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Add 1/2 cup coconut milk for a creamy curry twist.
- Top with chopped cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime.
This easy red bean soup recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekend dinners. Serve with warm naan, crusty bread, or rice for a satisfying vegan meal that everyone will love.
Related: Low Carb Low Calorie Keto Vegetable Soup Recipe
🌟 Expert Tips for Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale
Make the most out of your Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale by following these tested and SEO-enhanced cooking tips. These tips will help you turn a simple vegan soup into a hearty, nourishing, and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
✅ Use Canned Beans to Save Time
To make this easy red bean soup recipe even quicker, use pre-cooked or canned red kidney beans. They’re high in protein and fiber, making them ideal for vegan weeknight dinners.
✅ Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess
For a silky, creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats, stir in ½ cup of unsweetened coconut milk at the end. This adds a delicious tropical twist to your curried vegan soup.
✅ Blend for a Thicker Texture
If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend 1–2 cups of the soup and mix it back in. This keeps it rich and hearty—perfect for cozy nights and plant-based comfort food.
✅ Spice It Up or Tone It Down
Adjust the heat level by adding chili flakes or using mild curry powder. This makes it flexible for those who love spicy vegan soup recipes or prefer a more mellow flavor.
✅ Don’t Skip the Kale
Kale adds essential vitamins, fiber, and texture to the soup. For a softer bite, sauté it for a few minutes before adding. You can also substitute with spinach, chard, or collard greens.
✅ Make It a Meal Prep Staple
This vegan high-protein soup freezes beautifully and stores well for 4–5 days in the fridge. Perfect for batch cooking, healthy meal prep, and grab-and-go lunches.
Related: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup
🌶️ Variations You Can Try
This Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale is incredibly versatile and can be customized in many delicious ways to suit your taste preferences or pantry ingredients. Here are some tasty, healthy red bean soup variations that keep things exciting while staying vegan and wholesome.
🔥 Spicy Red Bean Soup
Add chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warming kick. Perfect for spice lovers looking for a bold and flavorful twist on classic vegan bean soup.
🥥 Creamy Coconut Curry Bean Soup
Stir in 1/2 cup of full-fat coconut milk at the end of cooking for a luscious, creamy texture and rich coconut flavor. Great for those who love Thai-inspired curry soups.
🌱 Spinach Instead of Kale
No kale? No problem. Swap with fresh baby spinach for a milder green. Still nutrient-dense and perfect for this plant-based bean soup.
🍠 Add Sweet Potatoes
Dice and simmer sweet potatoes with the soup for added creaminess, natural sweetness, and fiber. A great addition to this vegan red bean kale soup.
🧆 Add Chickpeas or Lentils
Boost protein and texture by adding chickpeas or red lentils. This makes it more of a hearty vegan curry stew perfect for meal prep.
🍋 Mediterranean-Inspired Twist
Add lemon juice, oregano, and roasted red peppers for a bright and tangy twist on this healthy red bean soup. Serve with warm pita bread.
💡 Don’t be afraid to mix and match! These easy vegan soup variations are all freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and full of plant-based protein. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even sharing with family.
Related: Creamy Avgolemono Chicken Soup With Gnocchi
🥣 What to Serve with Curried Red Bean Soup
This Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a satisfying full meal. These delicious ideas will enhance the flavor and create a complete plant-based soup experience.
🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Naan
Serve with warm garlic naan or a crusty artisan bread to soak up every drop of this flavorful vegan curry soup.
🍚 Steamed Basmati or Brown Rice
Pair it with fluffy rice for a wholesome and filling vegan dinner idea. Basmati rice complements the curry flavors beautifully.
🥗 Simple Green Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of this spiced red bean kale soup.
🥄 Coconut Yogurt Swirl
Top your bowl with a swirl of coconut yogurt for a creamy, cooling contrast that enhances every spoonful.
🫓 Vegan Flatbreads
Try it with easy vegan flatbreads for a satisfying and protein-packed plant-based meal.
🌿 Quinoa or Couscous
Add a scoop of cooked quinoa or couscous for extra plant-based protein and texture to your meal.
Related: Crispy Parmesan Eggs
🥣 How to Store & Meal Prep Curried Red Bean Soup
Make this high-protein vegan soup ahead of time and enjoy easy, nourishing meals all week long! Learn the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat your red bean soup with kale.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This vegan red bean soup with kale tastes even better the next day!
Freezer Friendly
Portion soup into freezer-safe containers or silicone soup cubes. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Great for vegan meal prep!
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Or microwave in a covered bowl with a splash of water for 2–3 minutes. Stir well and enjoy!
🥗 Pro Meal Prep Tips:
- Divide soup into individual portions for grab-and-go lunches.
- Label containers with dates for optimal freshness.
- Pair with cooked rice, quinoa, or flatbread to create complete meals.
- Batch cook and freeze in mason jars or reusable silicone bags.
Related: Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
FAQs About Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale
Yes! If you prefer using dried red kidney beans for your curried red bean soup, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the soup. Canned beans save time and work just as well for this easy vegan soup recipe.
This curried bean soup has a mild heat from curry powder. You can adjust the spiciness by adding cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy twist on this vegan comfort food recipe.
While kale adds a hearty texture and is packed with nutrients, spinach is a great substitute. Add it toward the end of cooking as it wilts quickly. Both leafy greens work beautifully in this healthy red bean soup.
To create a creamy version of this vegan red bean soup, blend half the soup and return it to the pot. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for extra richness while keeping it dairy-free.
This curried red bean soup with kale lasts up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or microwave. It’s also freezer-friendly for up to 3 months, making it ideal for meal prep!
Serve it with steamed rice, warm naan, crusty bread, or quinoa for a filling meal. For a low-carb option, pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables. This high-protein plant-based soup is very versatile!
Suggested: Creamy Tuna Salad Recipe
Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale | Easy Vegan & High Protein Recipe
A warm and comforting bowl of Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale is the perfect plant-based meal packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors. The curry spices give it a rich depth, while the kale adds a fresh and hearty green touch.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky kick)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15 oz) cans red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chopped kale, ribs removed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. - Add Spices:
Add curry powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their aroma. - Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir well to deglaze the pot. Add in the red kidney beans and mix. - Simmer the Soup:
Add vegetable broth and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. - Add Kale:
Stir in the chopped kale and cook for another 5–7 minutes, until the kale is tender but still vibrant. - Finish and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Serve Hot:
Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm with crusty bread or rice.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or tofu cubes for extra protein.
- Creamier Version: Blend half the soup for a creamier texture before adding the kale.
- Spice Control: Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level.
- Greens Swap: Use spinach, collard greens, or Swiss chard instead of kale.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm naan or flatbread
- Pair with brown rice or quinoa
- Add a dollop of coconut yogurt for a creamy finish
- Drizzle of coconut milk for visual appeal and richness
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 226Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 1063mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 9gSugar: 8gProtein: 11g
Related: Easy Chickpea Salad Recipe
🥬 Health Benefits of Red Beans and Kale
This hearty Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale is more than just a flavorful vegan comfort food — it’s packed with powerful health benefits. Both red kidney beans and kale are loaded with essential nutrients, making this soup a nourishing addition to any plant-based diet.
❤️ Red Kidney Beans
- High in plant-based protein and dietary fiber
- Supports digestive health and satiety
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels
- Rich in antioxidants like polyphenols
- Boosts heart health with magnesium and potassium
🔗 Learn more about the benefits of kidney beans on Healthline.
🌿 Kale
- Loaded with vitamin K, A, and C
- Supports immune system and bone health
- Anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties
- Low in calories, high in fiber
- Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health
🔗 See full kale nutrition data from the USDA FoodData Central.
Adding more high-protein vegan soups like this Curried Red Bean Soup with Kale can support your overall health goals, from weight management to better immunity — all while enjoying a warm and satisfying meal.
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