Dive into the comforting warmth of this Silky Lentil Soup, a vibrant and flavorful Middle Eastern recipe that's surprisingly quick and easy to make. Forget complicated lentil dishes; this recipe delivers a luxuriously smooth and satisfying soup in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch. The secret lies in a simple blend of fragrant spices and a clever cooking technique that yields exceptionally tender lentils, resulting in a soup that's both hearty and elegant. Imagine the rich aroma of cumin, coriander, and turmeric filling your kitchen as you create this culinary delight.
This silky smooth soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal for the whole family. Ready to experience the magic of this simple yet sophisticated recipe? Let's embark on a step-by-step journey to create your own bowl of delicious Silky Lentil Soup, starting with the preparation of the key ingredients.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Immersion blender
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Large onion: 1
- Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Orange lentils
- Water
- Salt
- Cumin
- Turmeric
- Chicken bouillon
- Nutritional yeast (vegan option): 3-4 tablespoons
- Olives
- Arugula
- Radishes
- Lemons
- Green onions
- Pita bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté and Simmer the Lentils
- Dice one large onion. You don't need to be precise as it will be blended later.
- Sauté the onions in 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil until translucent.
- Add washed and drained orange lentils to the sautéed onions.
- Add water to the pot. Season with salt, cumin, turmeric, and chicken bouillon (or nutritional yeast for vegan).
- Bring to a boil, cover, leaving some space to prevent boiling over. Cook for 11-14 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes.
Step 2. Prepare Garnishes
- olives, chopped arugula, radishes, lemon wedges, and chopped green onions.
Step 3. Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Blend in short bursts (1-2 seconds) to prevent splattering.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot, garnished with your prepared vegetables and a squeeze of lemon. Enjoy with pita bread (homemade or store-bought).
Read more: Delicious Chicken Maqluba Rice Recipe (Sinhala)
Tips
- Use orange lentils for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Don't overdo the turmeric, as it can make the soup bitter.
- Toasted white bread is a surprisingly delicious accompaniment.
- You can also rip up pita bread and add it to the soup for a dumpling-like effect.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of lentils for this recipe?
While red lentils are best for their quick cooking time and smooth texture, you can experiment with brown or green lentils. Just note that they'll require a longer cooking time.
2. What can I do if my soup is too thick or too thin?
For a thinner soup, add more broth. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also blend a portion for a creamier consistency.
This Silky Lentil Soup recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Middle Eastern cuisine. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this hearty and healthy meal, perfect for any occasion. From your kitchen to your table, savor every spoonful of this easy-to-make culinary delight!