Description
Warm, comforting, and irresistibly smooth, Turkish Lentil Soup is the perfect choice for those seeking a quick dinner idea, easy recipe, or healthy snack. With earthy red lentils, aromatic spices like cumin and paprika, and a burst of lemon, this easy dinner recipe embodies both simplicity and depth of flavor. Loved across Turkish homes and now increasingly around the world, this dish is high in protein, naturally vegan, and ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re exploring new breakfast ideas, looking for hearty food ideas, or need a nutritious side, this soup checks every box. Its velvety texture, golden hue, and zesty finish make it both soul-warming and weeknight-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 5 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes or chili oil
- Croutons or crusty bread
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in diced carrots and cook for another 3–5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Mix in tomato paste, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add rinsed lentils and pour in the vegetable broth or water.
- Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until lentils and vegetables are soft.
- Blend using an immersion blender until smooth (or use a regular blender in batches).
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Serve hot with garnishes and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes