Turkish Red Lentils Soup

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils are often more affordable and have a similar texture.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: water

💰Cheaper: chicken broth

Using water reduces sodium and cost while still providing flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Sunflower oil is less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

fresh parsley

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Spinach adds nutrients and can be more accessible.

Heat olive oil and butter in a pot.

Chop one onion and add it to the pot with fresh garlic.

Peel and cut one potato and one carrot into large pieces and add to the pot.

Mix everything together and cover the pot for a few minutes.

Add salt, cumin, black pepper, turmeric, and 1 tablespoon of dried mint to the pot.

Rinse 2 cups of red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.

Add 6 cups of hot water to the pot and cover it.

Cook for 30 to 35 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

In a small pan, heat olive oil with garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to make a flavored oil.

Blend the soup using a hand blender until desired texture is reached.

Return the blended soup to the pot and simmer for a few minutes.

Drizzle the flavored oil on top of the soup before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary