Red lentil soup

Red Lentil Soup - a comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover the charm of a traditional recipe that has brought joy to tables around the world - red lentil soup! This simple and delicious recipe, known as Kırmızı Mercimek Çorbası, is not only an excellent choice for chilly days but also a nutritious option, rich in protein and iron. Red lentils are a fantastic source of nutrients, and this soup is a great way to incorporate legumes into your daily diet.

Necessary ingredients

- 250 g red lentils
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root (or 1 parsnip)
- 2-3 green onions (or 1 medium onion)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon red pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Preparing red lentil soup - essential steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Rinse the red lentils under cold water, then drain. Chop the green onions finely, and grate the carrot and parsley on a large grater. The garlic can be minced or crushed, depending on your preference.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. This step is essential to release the flavors from the oil and combine them with the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will add extra flavor to your soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is ready, add the grated carrot and parsley. Mix well to combine the flavors, then let the vegetables sauté for another 3-4 minutes.

5. Adding the lentils and water: Add the drained red lentils, red pepper paste, and enough water (about 1 liter) to cover the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and ground coriander. Mix well and bring the soup to a boil.

6. Boiling the soup: Once the soup starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The lentils will soften and begin to break down, creating a creamy texture.

7. Finishing the soup: After all the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have melded, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup if you prefer a smoother consistency. This is an excellent choice for those who enjoy creamy soups.

8. Serving: Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or dill. You can accompany it with garlic-rubbed toasted bread or crispy croutons for added flavor and texture.

Practical tips for a perfect soup

- Selecting lentils: Choose high-quality lentils, preferably organic, for the best results. Red lentils do not require pre-soaking, making them ideal for quick meals.

- Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the flavor. You can also adjust the spices according to your preferences, adding a pinch of chili for a touch of heat.

- Nutrition: Red lentil soup is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. A serving contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use green or brown lentils?: Yes, but the cooking time will be longer for these as they are tougher.
- Can I freeze the soup?: Absolutely! The soup keeps well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.

- Serving and pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce, adding a note of creaminess. You can serve it as an appetizer or as a main dish, depending on your preferences.

Enjoy every spoonful of this red lentil soup, which will not only warm your soul but also bring a touch of history and culture to your table. Bon appétit!