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Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe

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4 from 4 reviews

This classic Lebanese Lentil Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish featuring red lentils simmered with aromatic spices like cumin and turmeric. Enriched with fresh vegetables and brightened with lemon juice and parsley, this soup is a delicious and healthy option perfect for a quick weeknight meal or light lunch.

Ingredients

Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, chopped
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 5 cups vegetable broth or water
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Set a large pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to warm up.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and chopped carrot to the pot. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add spices: Stir in ground cumin and turmeric, cooking for about 30 seconds to release their aromas and deepen the flavors.
  4. Add lentils and liquid: Pour in the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth or water. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
  6. Season and brighten: Stir in the lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley. Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  7. Blend to texture: Use an immersion blender or regular blender to partially or fully blend the soup according to your desired consistency — creamy or slightly chunky.
  8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Rinsing lentils before cooking removes impurities and helps them cook evenly.
  • For a vegan version, ensure the vegetable broth is free from animal products.
  • Adjust the lemon juice to your taste for more or less tanginess.
  • This soup freezes well—cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
  • Partial blending retains some texture, while full blending creates a smooth, creamy soup.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/lebanese-lentil-soup-recipe/