Arabic Lentil Soup Recipe
A hearty and flavorful Arabic Lentil Soup made with red lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. This comforting soup is blended to a smooth consistency and finished with a fresh drizzle of lemon and cilantro, perfect for a nutritious and warming meal.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Arabic
- Diet: Vegan
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and picked over
Liquids & Others
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lemon, for serving
- Olive oil, for cooking (amount not specified, estimate 1-2 tablespoons)
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, chopped carrots, celery, and tomato. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring regularly until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Add Spices and Lentils: Mix in ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric along with the rinsed red lentils. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and combine flavors.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are fully cooked and tender.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed for balanced flavor.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender or hand blender to partially or completely blend the soup according to your preferred texture and consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with lemon juice, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Rinsing lentils before cooking helps remove any debris and improves texture.
- Adjust the blending consistency based on preference; some like it chunky, others fully smooth.
- The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh contrast that balances the earthiness of the lentils.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For added richness, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top before serving.
Keywords: Arabic Lentil Soup, Lentil Soup, Vegan Soup, Middle Eastern Soup, Healthy Soup, Comfort Food, Red Lentils