Have you ever tried Syrian lentil soup? If not, you are missing out on a delicious, nutritious, and flavorful dish that is easy to make.
This flavorful dish simmered with lentils, garlic, and warm spices, a perfect vegetarian lentil soup recipe. You can enjoy it chunky or blend it for a smoother texture.
This Syrian lentil soup known as shurba is a traditional recipe from the Middle East that consists of red lentils, onion, garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and fresh cilantro. It is vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories but high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It is perfect for a cozy and comforting meal, especially on cold or rainy days.
In this blog post, I will show you how to make Syrian Lentil Soup in less than 30 minutes, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. You will love the creamy texture, the tangy taste, and the aromatic smell of this soup. Plus, I will share some tips and variations to customize it to your liking.
So, are you ready to try this amazing soup? Let’s get started!
Looking for a perfect pairing for this soup? We’ve got you covered with these fantastic recipes: Easy Gluten-Free Pita Bread and Gluten-Free Croutons with Italian Seasoning (perfect for stuffing!).
Why You’ll Love Syrian Lentil Soup
This soup is more than just a comforting bowl of nourishment. It celebrates simple ingredients and the love poured into every simmering pot. Here is why this humble soup has captured the hearts of many.
- Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Packed with red lentils, celery, carrots, and aromatic spices, this soup is a nutritional powerhouse.
- Soul-Satisfying Comfort: Experience the warmth and comfort of a classic lentil soup with a Syrian twist, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a bowl of solace.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice chefs can master this recipe.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize the soup to your liking, adjusting spice levels or experimenting with additional ingredients.
How to Make Syrian Lentil Soup
Get ready to warm up with a taste of the Middle East! This hearty soup is surprisingly easy to make at home. I’m sure these ingredients are readily available at grocery stores or even in your kitchen pantry. Worried about the steps? Don’t be! Just follow the sauté, simmer, and blend method!
Let’s gather the ingredients!
- Celery
- Carrots
- Onion
- Garlic
- Red lentils
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Cumin
- Coriander
Let’s get started!
- Prepare the Vegetables: Clean and chop the celery, carrots, onion, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Sauté the Mirepoix: Heat olive oil in a pot, add celery, carrots, onion, and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Lentils: Stir in washed red lentils, cumin, and ground coriander, ensuring an even coating.
- Add Water: Pour enough water to cover the ingredients by 2 inches, boil, then simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender and the soup thickens.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, adjusting cumin and coriander to taste.
- Blend (Optional): Use an immersion blender to achieve your preferred consistency for a smoother texture.
- Serve: Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Variations for Syrian Lentil Soup
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken or lamb for added protein and richness.
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to enhance the flavors with a hint of citrus.
What to Serve with Syrian Lentil Soup:
Elevate your soup with a variety of accompaniments! Consider classic breads like pita or crusty sourdough for dipping, or go for flatbreads like naan or roti. Balance the richness with a simple green salad, or add more flair with a Moroccan couscous salad or a creamy tahini dressing.
Roasted vegetables bring sweetness and texture, while rice or quinoa provides a base for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a Syrian twist, offer a lemony labneh or goat cheese board, or a platter of olives and feta cheese. With these options, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that complements your lentil soup perfectly.
How to Store Leftover Syrian Lentil Soup
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for extended storage, ensuring the soup retains its flavors for 2-3 months.
Don’t Wait! Make Syrian Lentil Soup This Delicious Recipe Today!
Syrian Lentil Soup
This flavorful dish simmered with lentils, garlic, and warm spices, a perfect vegetarian comfort food. You can enjoy it chunky or blend it for a smoother texture.
Ingredients
- 8 stick celery
- 4 medium carrots
- 1 medium onion
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups red lentils, washed
- 4 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tsp salt, season to taste
- 2-4 tbsps cumin
- 2 tbsps coriander, ground
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Clean and chop the celery, carrots, onion, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Sauté the Mirepoix: Heat olive oil in a pot, add celery, carrots, onion, and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Lentils: Stir in washed red lentils, cumin, and ground coriander, ensuring an even coating.
- Add Water: Pour enough water to cover the ingredients by 2 inches, boil, then simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender and the soup thickens.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, adjusting cumin and coriander to taste.
- Blend (Optional): Use an immersion blender to achieve your preferred consistency for a smoother texture.
- Serve: Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Common Questions about Syrian Lentil Soup:
- Can I use green lentils instead of red? While red lentils provide a distinct flavor and texture, you can substitute with green lentils, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Is it necessary to blend the soup? Blending is optional; it depends on your preference. Some enjoy a chunky texture, while others prefer a smoother consistency.
- Can I make it ahead for a crowd? Absolutely! Prepare the soup in advance and reheat before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Syrian Lentil Soup is more than a recipe; it’s a journey into the heart of comforting flavors and rich traditions. Whether you savor it as a solo meal or share it with loved ones, this soup captures the essence of warmth and nourishment. Make it your own, and let this soup become your favorite in your kitchen.