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Turkish Mercimek Çorbası
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 potato, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of red lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 1 chopped carrot, 1 chopped potato, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and enjoy!
Turkish Mercimek Çorbası, or red lentil soup, has been a staple in Turkish cuisine for centuries. This hearty and flavorful soup is made from red lentils, onions, carrots, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin and paprika. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East and has since become a beloved dish in Turkey. The soup is often served as a starter or a main course, and is enjoyed throughout the country. Many Turkish chefs and restaurants take pride in perfecting their own version of Mercimek Çorbası, with some adding a twist by incorporating ingredients like mint or lemon juice for a refreshing flavor. One of the best places to savor this dish is in Istanbul, where you can find authentic Mercimek Çorbası in traditional eateries and restaurants. The key to making a delicious Mercimek Çorbası lies in the quality of the lentils and the balance of spices, which give the soup its rich and comforting taste. While the traditional recipe calls for simple ingredients, some variations include adding bulgur or rice for added texture. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter day or as a light meal, Mercimek Çorbası continues to be a beloved dish that represents the heart and soul of Turkish cuisine.
45 min
6
220 calories
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