How to Make Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Mercimek Corbasi)

Turkish Red Lentil Soup, known as Mercimek Çorbası, is a comforting and nutritious dish beloved in Turkish cuisine. This delightful soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and flavor. Below is a step-by-step guide to making this traditional recipe at home.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Turkish Red Lentil Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 potato, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
  • Fresh 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 helps remove any impurities and ensures the lentils are clean.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the diced carrot and potato, stirring for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and cumin powder. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their flavors.

4. Combine Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

5. Simmer

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Blend the Soup

Once the soup is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious with hot liquids!

7. Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. If desired, add freshly squeezed lemon juice for an extra zing. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoying Mercimek Çorbası

Turkish Red Lentil Soup is typically enjoyed as a starter or main course and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pita. This nutritious soup not only warms the body but also delights the palate with its rich, earthy flavors.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to customize your Mercimek Çorbası by adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced chili peppers. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Whether you are searching for a hearty meal or a nutritious option, Turkish Red Lentil Soup is a fantastic choice. Try this recipe today and savor the taste of traditional Turkish cuisine right in your kitchen!