How to Prepare Turkish Red Lentil Soup with Lemon
Turkish Red Lentil Soup, known as "Mercimek Çorbası," is a hearty and nutritious dish packed with flavor. The addition of lemon gives it a refreshing twist, making it a favorite in many households. This article will guide you through the steps of preparing this delicious soup, along with some tips for enhancing your culinary experience.
Ingredients for Turkish Red Lentil Soup
To make a delightful pot of Turkish Red Lentil Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions to Prepare the Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Turkish Red Lentil Soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the grated carrot and diced potato, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the soup.
Step 2: Add Lentils and Spices
Stir in the rinsed red lentils, tomato paste, paprika, and cumin. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables. This infusion of spices brings a rich taste to the lentils.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that there is enough liquid to cover the lentils and vegetables by a couple of inches. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the lentils and vegetables are cooked through, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
Step 5: Season and Add Lemon
After blending, return the soup to low heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Finally, add the juice of one lemon, stirring well. The lemon adds brightness and elevates the flavors of the soup.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. You can also add a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy a more intense citrus flavor. Turkish bread or pita pairs beautifully with this dish.
Tips for Extra Flavor
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Top the soup with a drizzle of olive oil just before serving for added richness.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or dill for a unique twist.
Turkish Red Lentil Soup with Lemon is not only a comforting meal but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Enjoy making this delicious soup in your kitchen as it warms both your heart and your soul.