Warm your soul with this simple yet flavorful Iraqi Lentil Soup, perfect for a comforting meal or a light Ramadan fast-breaking dish. Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free. This unique lentil soup recipe is sure to make everyone happy.
Have you ever experienced the warmth of a hearty bowl of Iraqi lentil soup? As I stir the pot, memories flood my mind – the aroma of fragrant spices, the comforting sight of simmering lentils, and the anticipation of that first spoonful. But beyond the comforting taste, this soup holds a rich cultural heritage and a story of tradition passed down through generations.
What makes this soup so unique? Is it the aromatic blend of spices? The hearty texture of green lentils? Or perhaps the centuries-old culinary tradition it embodies? Well, get ready to find out with me!
Iraqi Lentil Soup, known as ‘Shorbat Adas’ in Arabic, is a staple in Iraqi households and Middle Eastern cuisines, especially during Ramadan. As families gather to break their fast, the hearty warmth of this soup offers comfort and nourishment. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish crafted from humble ingredients – green lentils, onions, garlic, and various spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander- which are slow-cooked to perfection.
So, if you’re ready to prepare this soup with me, let us uncover the secrets of Iraqi Lentil Soup. Get ready to stir, simmer, and savor your way to soup perfection!
Are you looking for more soups that are perfect for Ramadan? You should try our 11 Freezable Ramadan Soup Recipes to Have on Hand.
Why You’ll Love This Iraqi Lentil Soup
So, why should you ditch your usual fasting routine and dive into this vibrant green wonder? Buckle up, because here are just a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Simple Elegance: With its minimalist ingredient list and straightforward cooking process, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend afternoons. Don’t be intimidated by its origins; this recipe is surprisingly approachable, even for novice cooks.
- Flavor Fiesta: Don’t let the humble lentils fool you. This soup packs a punch of flavor thanks to a symphony of warming spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Each spoonful is a delightful adventure, where earthy lentil notes intertwine with zesty lemon and the delicate perfume of fresh cilantro.
- Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s a nutritional powerhouse that fuels your body and energizes you throughout the day. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary needs.
How to Make Iraqi Lentil Soup
Before we cook this soup, gather your ingredients. Remember, this recipe emphasizes flexibility, so feel free to adjust quantities to suit your taste and family size. Don’t worry about precise measurements; focus on balancing the flavors and letting your intuition guide you.
Let’s gather the ingredients!
- Green lentils
- Vermicelli noodles
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ground cumin
- Turmeric
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Water
- Vegetable broth
Let’s make this comforting soup!
- Preparation: Start by giving your lentils a quick rinse to remove debris and excess starch. Then, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic clove.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent and slightly golden, then add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and turmeric. Cook until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed lentils, followed by water and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the lentils are tender, blend the soup to your desired consistency using an immersion or upright blender. Return the mixture to the pot and add vermicelli noodles. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed based on the saltiness of your broth. Before serving, check the consistency and adjust with more water or broth if necessary. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.
Variations for Iraqi Lentil Soup
While this soup is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add diced carrots or celery for extra crunch and sweetness.
- For a creamy finish, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- To elevate the flavor profile, experiment with different spices like paprika, coriander, or cinnamon.
Beyond the Bowl: What to Pair with Your Iraqi Lentil Soup
This versatile soup shines on its own, but you can also enhance your meal with complementary sides:
- Freshly Baked Bread: Pita bread, naan, or even crusty sourdough are perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Simple Salad: A side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Chickpeas, broccoli, or cauliflower add extra texture and boost nutrients.
- Yogurt with Herbs: A dollop of plain yogurt with chopped herbs adds a cooling and creamy element.
Is Iraqi Lentil Soup Can Be Stored?
Yes, Iraqi Lentil Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. You can also make a big batch ahead of time and freeze individual portions for future meals.
You might also consider portioning out this recipe. If you plan to save or freeze it you may want to add the noodles only at the time of cooking.
Facts about Green Lentils
- Green or Puy lentils are prized for their peppery flavor and firm texture.
- Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate, green lentils are a nutritious addition to any diet.
- Soaking lentils 2-3 hours before cooking can help reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Cooking Up Iraqi Lentil Soup at Home!
Iraqi Lentil Soup
Warm your soul with this simple yet flavorful Iraqi Lentil Soup, perfect for a comforting meal or a light Ramadan fast-breaking dish. Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils (or brown lentils)
- ¼ cup vermicelli noodles
- 1 medium onlon
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 Tbsp ground cumin
- ½ Tbsp turmeric
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups of water
- 3 cups of vegetable broth
Instructions
- Preparation: Start by giving your lentils a quick rinse to remove debris and excess starch. Then, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic clove.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent and slightly golden, then add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and turmeric. Cook until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed lentils, followed by water and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the lentils are tender, blend the soup to your desired consistency using an immersion or upright blender. Return the mixture to the pot and add vermicelli noodles. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed based on the saltiness of your broth. Before serving, check the consistency and adjust with more water or broth if necessary. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Soaking lentils for 2-3 hours can help speed up cooking time and lead to softer lentils.
Common Questions about Iraqi Lentil Soup:
- Can I use red lentils instead of green lentils? While red lentils can be substituted, remember that they tend to break down more during cooking, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Is this soup vegan-friendly? This recipe is entirely vegan, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Iraqi Lentil Soup promises warmth, nourishment, and aromatic flavors. Whether savoring it on a cozy night or sharing it with loved ones, this soup will leave a lasting impression. So why wait? Grab your apron and get ready to make this Middle Eastern cuisine!