Turkish Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası) is a hearty, vegan soup with red lentils, spices, and a lemony kick. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a delicious and budget-friendly meal for any occasion.
Do you love soup as much as I do? If so, you’re in for a treat with this Turkish lentil soup recipe. It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients and ready in 30 minutes or less.
Turkish lentil soup, or mercimek çorbası, is a staple dish in Turkey and many other Middle Eastern countries. It’s made with red lentils, which cook quickly and break into a smooth texture. The soup is seasoned with spices like cumin, paprika, and mint and sometimes enriched with tomato paste or red pepper paste. It’s often served with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and some bread or croutons.
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Lentils are a great plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate source. They can help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation. They’re also budget-friendly and shelf-stable, making them a pantry staple.
Whether you need a cozy meal for a cold day, a light lunch, or a simple appetizer, this Turkish lentil soup will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free to suit different dietary preferences. You can easily customize it by adding more or less spices, water, or toppings.
Ready to try this amazing soup? Let’s get started!
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Why You’ll Love This Turkish Lentil Soup
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this Turkish Lentil Soup. This hearty dish combines the earthy warmth of lentils, the aromatic tang of spices, and the comforting embrace of a hot soup. It’s not just a soup; it’s a journey to the heart of Turkey right in your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll love it.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this soup is a wholesome meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up a delicious Turkish Lentil Soup batch.
- Versatile: You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a smooth, creamy texture or a chunky consistency.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable pantry staples, Turkish Lentil Soup is a cost-effective option for feeding the whole family.
How to Make Turkish Lentil Soup:
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the steps to create this delicious, soul-warming dish right in your own home.
Let’s gather the ingredients!
- Red lentils
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic cloves
- Tomato paste
- Carrot
- Potato
- Dried mint
- Vegetable broth or water
Let’s start cooking!
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and potato.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste and dried mint, cooking until aromatic.
- Cook the Lentils and Vegetables: Add the lentils, carrot, and potato to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth or water.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the mixture simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of dried mint and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations for Turkish Lentil Soup
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a coconut milk or cream splash for a creamy, indulgent finish.
- Vegetable Medley: Mix additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for flavor and nutrition.
What to Serve with Turkish Lentil Soup
This hearty and flavorful dish is on its own, but serving it with complementary sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some traditional Turkish accompaniments that go well with lentil soup:
- Bread: Commonly paired with warm pita or crusty bread, serving as a perfect vessel to enjoy the soup’s rich flavors.
- Salad: A crisp, green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the robust soup. Customize with your preferred veggies and a light vinaigrette for balance.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes serve as a satisfying side, complementing the heartiness of the soup. Consider adding rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.
- Main Course: If serving as an appetizer, consider following up with main dishes like shish kofta or lahmacun to complete the meal experience.
- Toppings: Enhance the soup with various toppings, such as a splash of lemon juice, fresh herbs, chili oil, or crispy chickpeas or croutons for texture.
Remember, the ideal pairings may vary based on personal taste preferences and dietary considerations. Enjoy your dining experience!
How to Store Turkish Lentil Soup
Leftover Turkish Lentil Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer-term storage. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Facts about Turkish Lentil Soup
- Turkish Lentil Soup, also known as Mercimek Çorbası, is a staple in Turkish cuisine and is often served as a starter or a light meal.
- Lentils have been cultivated for thousands of years and are prized for their nutritional value, affordability, and versatility in cooking.
Spice Up Your Life: Try This Easy Turkish Lentil Soup Recipe
Turkish Lentil Soup
Turkish Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası) is a hearty, vegan soup with red lentils, spices, and a lemony kick. Packed with protein and fiber, it's a delicious and budget-friendly meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 7 oz red lentils
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 medium onion, fine chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 large potato, diced
- 1 tsp mint, dried
- 1.5 liters vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and potato.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste and dried mint, cooking until aromatic.
- Cook the Lentils and Vegetables: Add the lentils, carrot, and potato to the pot, then pour the vegetable broth or water.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the mixture simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of dried mint and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Common Questions about Turkish Lentil Soup
- Is Turkish Lentil Soup gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Can I use green lentils instead of red lentils? While red lentils are traditional for Turkish Lentil Soup, you can substitute them with green lentils if needed. Keep in mind that green lentils may require a longer cooking time.
Turkish Lentil Soup is a delightful dish that embodies the warmth and flavors of Turkish hospitality. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or as part of a festive gathering, this soup will surely delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Try this recipe and experience the culinary wonders of Turkish cuisine firsthand!