The Best High-Protein Turkish Lentil Soup for Weight Loss

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils add fiber while split peas are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is healthier while canola oil is budget-friendly.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is fresher, while water with seasoning is cost-effective.

fresh parsley

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Spinach offers nutrients, while dried herbs are more affordable.

Fry off an onion and carrot in a pot on medium to high heat for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add 2 garlic cloves (about 10 g) and some tomato puree to the pot.

Stir in chili flakes, paprika (not smoked), and cumin, frying for a further 30 seconds.

Add chicken stock to the pot, or vegetable stock if keeping it vegetarian.

Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, ensuring they are uncooked and not soaked.

Season generously with salt and grind in black pepper.

Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cook for about 45 minutes until the lentils have started to break down.

Optionally blend the soup for a smoother texture, but leave it unblended for a bit of bite if preferred.

Plate the soup and garnish with a drizzle of chili oil and Aleppo pepper or regular chili flakes, and parsley if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary