Soup Recipe: EASY Turkish Lentil Soup by Everyday Gourmet with Blakely

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils are often less expensive and provide a similar texture.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers a healthier fat profile.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth can be healthier and more flavorful.

tomato paste

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: canned tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes can provide a lighter flavor.

Dice one large onion and add to the pot.

Add good quality olive oil to the pot.

Chop three small carrots (or one large carrot) and add to the pot.

Add two cloves of garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant.

Add one heaping tablespoon of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flavor.

Stir in one teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of dried mint, 1/2 teaspoon of fresh thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, cooking for a minute.

Pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth and 1 cup of rinsed red lentils into the pot.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils and carrots are cooked through.

Prepare chili oil by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 1/2 teaspoons of paprika and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes until bubbling.

Serve the soup with a swirl of chili oil, fresh mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary