How to Make Turkish Lentil Soup
Turkish lentil soup, known as "Mercimek Çorbası," is a comforting and nutritious dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This popular soup is widely enjoyed in Turkish households and is perfect for various occasions. In this article, we'll explore how to make this delicious soup step by step.
Ingredients Needed
To make authentic Turkish lentil soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Rinse the Lentils
Start by rinsing the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove any impurities and excess starch.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Then, add the grated carrot, diced potato, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the Lentils and Spices
Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the rinsed red lentils, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
4. Pour in the Broth
Carefully pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. The lentils should become soft and start to break apart, thickening the soup.
5. Blend the Soup
After the lentils are cooked thoroughly, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave some lentils whole.
6. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavors beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve
Serve the Turkish lentil soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy it as a starter or a main dish alongside fresh bread.
Conclusion
Turkish lentil soup is not only delicious but also an excellent source of protein and fiber. It’s a perfect dish for vegans and vegetarians, as well as a hearty meal for anyone seeking comfort in a bowl. With these simple steps, you can bring the taste of Turkey into your kitchen and enjoy a warm and nourishing soup any day of the week.