How to Make Turkish Soup with Lemon and Red Lentils
If you're looking for a comforting and nutritious meal, Turkish soup with lemon and red lentils is an excellent choice. This delightful dish is packed with flavor and is easy to prepare. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide on how to make this wholesome soup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 potato, cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Lentils
Start by rinsing the red lentils under cold water. This helps remove any dust or impurities. Drain the lentils and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and cubed potato. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Spices and Lentils
Stir in the cumin and paprika, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors into the vegetables. Next, add the rinsed lentils to the pot and mix well.
Step 4: Pour in Broth
Add the broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can simply mash some of the lentils with a fork.
Step 6: Season and Add Lemon
After blending, stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. A wedge of lemon on the side makes for a perfect addition, allowing diners to add extra lemon juice for zest.
Tips for the Best Turkish Soup
- For added flavor, consider incorporating a dash of chili flakes for heat.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, so it’s great for meal prep!
This Turkish soup with lemon and red lentils is not only delicious but also filling and healthy. Whether you're serving it as a starter or a main dish, it's sure to warm you up and please your taste buds.