Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Print-Friendly Recipe)
Smooth Turkish red lentil blended with spices, vibrant vegetables, and a squeeze of lemon for cozy flavor.
# Ingredients List:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
02 -
1 large onion, chopped
03 -
2 carrots, chopped
04 -
1 rib celery, chopped
05 -
3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
06 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 -
2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 -
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into small pieces
09 -
8 cups vegetable broth
10 -
2 cups split red lentils, dried
11 -
1½ teaspoons salt
12 -
freshly ground black pepper, 2 twists
→ To Serve
13 -
1 lemon, cut into wedges
14 -
1 handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped
15 -
pita bread (optional)
→ Chili Oil Garnish
16 -
4 tablespoons olive oil or butter
17 -
1 clove garlic, crushed
18 -
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4 minutes, stirring frequently.
02 -
Add minced garlic, ground cumin, and tomato paste to the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously.
03 -
Incorporate peeled and diced potatoes, vegetable broth, and rinsed split red lentils. Stir to combine.
04 -
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer uncovered on medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, until the lentils are soft and the potatoes are fork-tender.
05 -
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 -
In a small pan, gently heat olive oil or butter over low heat. Add the crushed garlic and red pepper flakes. Fry for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
07 -
Ladle soup into bowls. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and a drizzle of chili oil. Accompany with pita bread if desired.
# Extra Information:
01 -
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and add a splash of water if thickened.
02 -
Yellow or whole red lentils may be substituted for split, but double the cooking time. Vegetable broth can be replaced with water for a lighter flavor.