How To Make Lebanese Lentil Soup
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shorbat Adas (Lebanese Lentil Soup) is a little taste of home, a comforting, nourishing, and hearty dish found around the Middle East. It’s vegan by nature, high in protein and fiber, and it has deep, earthy flavor with the warmth of spices. This soup is simple to make, using basic pantry staples, yet it has a rich and satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 cup red lentils, picked through, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, chopped finely
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 medium potato, diced (omit for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon paprika
6 cups of vegetable broth or water
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon (for serving)
Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
For Serving:
Warm pita bread
Extra lemon wedges
A drizzle of olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Stir in the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, cumin, turmeric, coriander and paprika. Cook, stirring, 1 minute more or until fragrant.
Step 2: Stir in the Vegetables and Lentils
Add the diced carrots and potatoes, if using, stirring to coat with the spices.
Stir in the rinsed lentils and mix well.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat to low and allow it to simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the lentils and vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a creamy consistency, blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth.
For a heartier soup, mash a few of the lentils with the back of a spoon and leave the rest whole.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the soup, adding salt and black pepper as necessary.
Add fresh lemon juice for a tangy brightness.
Top with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Serve hot, with warm pita bread and additional lemon wedges.
Our Best Lebanese Lentil Soup Tips
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
For a heartier stew, stir in some cooked rice or quinoa before serving.
If the soup thickens too much add additional broth / water to adjust consistency.
Health Benefits of This Dish
Lentils: A protein- and fiber-rich food; good for digestion and heart.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic and onions help enhance immune functions.
Carrots and potatoes offer vitamins and minerals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Refrigerate soup in an airtight container for 4 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Reheat on the stove top with a bit of water, if necessary.
Can I Use Other Lentils?
Red lentils are best as they cook quickly and create a creamy texture, although yellow lentils or split peas would also work.
Final Thoughts
Lebanese lentil soup is a simple but absolutely delicious cozy meal. It’s wholesome, simple to prepare and redolent of spices. Check out this recipe and bring a hint of the middle east right to your kitchen!
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