A JOURNEY THOUGH FLAVORS: RECIPES INSPIRED BY GLOBAL CULTURES

 

Turkish Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası): A Warm Hug in a Bowl

Have you ever craved a soup that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day? Mercimek Çorbası, Turkey’s most beloved lentil soup, is the perfect comfort food. This creamy and flavorful dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients. A hint of spice and fresh mint add warmth and depth to every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of half a lemon (for serving)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (sweet or hot) for garnish
• 1 fresh mint leaf for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Stir in the diced carrot and potato, cooking for about three minutes.

Add the Goodness: Mix in the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well before adding the rinsed lentils. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Let It Simmer: Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are soft.

Blend to Perfection: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency.

Finishing Touch: Serve the soup in bowls, sprinkle with red pepper flakes, and top with a fresh mint leaf. Add a squeeze of lemon for an authentic Turkish flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Lentil Soup

• For extra creaminess: Add a small knob of butter before blending.
• Adjust the spice level: Use sweet or hot red pepper flakes.
• Make it heartier: Add a handful of rice while cooking.
• Store leftovers: Keep in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time.

Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians. They are rich in iron, which helps fight fatigue and keeps you energized. Adding lentils to your diet supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Try It and Share Your Thoughts!

Now that you have the ultimate Turkish Lentil Soup recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Do you prefer it spicy or mild? Let us know in the comments and enjoy your homemade soup!