Turkish Red Lentil Soup
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası!)
Looking for a comforting, healthy, and flavorful soup to warm you up? Look no further than Turkish Red Lentil Soup, also known as Mercimek Çorbası! This vibrant soup is a staple in Turkish cuisine and a beloved dish throughout the Mediterranean. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with protein and fiber, and bursting with warm, aromatic spices.
This isn’t just any lentil soup; the Turkish version is known for its smooth, velvety texture and bright, inviting color. It’s a perfect starter for a cozy dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a light and nourishing dinner on its own. The best part? It comes together in under an hour, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.
What makes this Turkish Red Lentil Soup special?
- Simplicity: The ingredient list is short and sweet, focusing on fresh, wholesome ingredients.
- Flavorful Spice Blend: Cumin and paprika create a warm, inviting aroma and taste.
- Velvety Smooth Texture: Blending the soup creates a luxurious, comforting texture.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Red lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron.
Serving Suggestions:
Traditionally, Turkish Red Lentil Soup is served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which brightens the flavors beautifully. You can also garnish it with a swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dollop of yogurt. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and a side salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use brown or green lentils instead of red lentils?
A: While you can use other lentils, red lentils are preferred because they break down more easily and create the signature smooth texture of this soup. Other lentils will require a longer cooking time and may not blend as smoothly.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Is this soup vegetarian/vegan?
A: This recipe is naturally vegetarian! To make it vegan, simply ensure you’re using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Q: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
A: You can use a regular blender, but be very careful! Blend the soup in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
Get ready to experience the comforting goodness of Turkish Red Lentil Soup – a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Turkish Red Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 6 cups water or stock Chicken stock is recommended for extra flavor
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste salt
- lemon juice to taste lemon juice optional, for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rinsed lentils, water or stock, cumin, paprika, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender (carefully!) to blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches.
- Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
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