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Arabic Lentil Soup Recipe

4.9 from 110 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed for balanced flavor.
  6. Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender or hand blender to partially or completely blend the soup according to your preferred texture and consistency.
  7. 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