Spicy Turkish RED LENTIL SOUP – Easy VEGAN Comfort Food

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.

Wash the lentils thoroughly until the water runs clear and set aside to drain.

Roughly chop the onions and the garlic cloves.

In a large pot, heat up 3 tbsp olive oil and add the chopped onions.

Stir and cook for 5 – 6 mins until the onions are softened.

Add the chopped garlic, stir and cook for 1 min until the garlic is fragrant.

Add the tomato paste and optionally red pepper paste, stir to combine and sauté 2 mins until the paste is cooked.

Add 2 tsp paprika powder, 2 tsp pul biber, 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1/2 tsp dried mint.

Stir and sauté for 1 – 2 mins on low heat until the spices are fragrant.

Add the red lentils and add 1.5 liter water, bring to a boil.

Switch to low heat and cook covered for 30 mins until the lentils are fully softened and start to split.

Season with salt and process with a hand blender until smooth but still a bit chunky.

Let it rest for 10 mins, stir and serve with fresh bread, lemon wedges and pul biber to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary