Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Red Lentil Soup is a comforting dish inspired by Middle Eastern culinary traditions. It's perfect as a hearty starter or a satisfying main course. Enjoy the rich blend of red lentils and vegetables with aromatic spices for an unforgettable meal experience.
Ingredients
🥕 1 cup sliced carrots
🍅 2 small diced tomatoes
🥔 2 small diced potatoes
🧄 2 cloves minced garlic
🧅 1 small diced onion
🥄 2 tablespoons olive oil
🍅 2 tablespoons tomato paste
🌾 2 cups red lentils, washed
💧 6 cups hot water
💧 1 additional cup of water
🥄 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon
🌶️ ½ teaspoon black pepper
🌶️ ½ teaspoon crushed red peppers
🍃 1 teaspoon dried mint
Instructions
1- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
2- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the diced tomatoes, potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pot.
- Stir well and allow them to cook, covered, for several minutes until they begin to soften.
3- Add Tomato Paste and Lentils:
- Stir in the tomato paste until fully incorporated.
- Add the washed red lentils and mix everything together.
4- Boil the Mixture:
- Pour in the 6 cups of hot water and give everything a good stir.
- Allow the mixture to boil for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots and potatoes are tender.
5- Blend the Soup:
- Use a hand blender to purée the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency.
6- Thin and Season the Soup:
- Add 1 additional cup of water to thin the soup to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the chicken bouillon, black pepper, crushed red peppers, and dried mint.
7- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8- Serve:
- Enjoy your soup hot as a hearty meal on its own, or as a comforting starter to a larger meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approx. 200
Protein: 10g
Fats: 5g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Equipment: Large pot, hand blender
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the lentils are washed thoroughly.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, considering the saltiness of the chicken bouillon.
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