Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner recipe? Look no further! This authentic Arabic lentil soup is packed with flavor, nutrients, and is surprisingly quick to prepare. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend lunch, this lentil soup is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing the simplicity and depth of flavor found in traditional Arabic cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Bloom the spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step enhances the flavors of the spices.
-
Add lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth (or chicken broth), and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
-
Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips for the Best Lentil Soup:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 25-minute mark.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference. If you like a spicier soup, add more cayenne pepper.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or spinach to the soup.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier soup. A dollop of plain yogurt also adds a nice creamy texture.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Lentil Soup: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Lentil Soup: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Ensure your broth is vegetable-based to keep this recipe entirely vegetarian or vegan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used. A typical serving may contain around 250-300 calories, with a significant amount of protein and fiber. This makes it a great option for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
This delicious and nutritious lentil soup is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of easy recipes. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy addition to your weekly meal rotation!