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Turkish Style Red Lentil Soup
Turkish Style Red Lentil Soup, known as Mercimek Çorbası, is a comforting and hearty dish enjoyed across Turkey. This nutritious, protein-packed soup is naturally creamy, flavored with simple spices, fresh vegetables, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for cold days or a light yet satisfying meal, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this authentic Turkish recipe that is both delicious and wholesome!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Cutting board and knife
- Blender or immersion blender
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils rinsed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 medium carrot chopped
- 1 medium potato diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- 5 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried mint optional
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add the Spices & Tomato Paste:
- Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Add Lentils & Broth:
- Pour in the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Stir well and bring to a boil.
Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to blend until smooth and creamy.
Finish with Lemon & Mint:
- Stir in the lemon juice and dried mint (if using) for extra freshness.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Pour into bowls and serve hot with warm crusty bread or pita.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- For extra richness, add a drizzle of melted butter mixed with paprika before serving.
- Prefer a chunky texture? Mash with a fork instead of blending.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra lemon juice for added flavor.
Nutritional Comparison (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Turkish Style Red Lentil Soup | Canned Lentil Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 | ~250 |
| Protein | ~10g | ~6g |
| Fiber | ~8g | ~4g |
| Sugar | ~4g (natural) | ~10g (added sugar) |
| Healthy Fats | ~5g | ~2g |
Conclusion
This Turkish Style Red Lentil Soup is a simple, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it's an excellent choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or a traditional Turkish recipe, this soup is perfect for any occasion!
Have you tried making Mercimek Çorbası before? Let us know in the comments! 🍋🥣