Hearty Turkish Lentil Soup with Carrot & Spice

Turkish lentil soup (Mercimek Çorbası) is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. This hearty version includes carrots and a blend of spices that elevate the flavor, making it even more filling and aromatic. Packed with red lentils, vegetables, and earthy spices, this soup is as nutritious as it is satisfying.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 1 potato, peeled and chopped

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Why it works: Sautéing the onion and garlic first creates a flavorful base for the soup, infusing the oil with aromatics that enhance the overall taste.

Step 2: Add the Carrots and Potato

Stir in the carrots and potato and cook for 3-4 minutes. This step helps soften the vegetables and brings out their natural sweetness, adding to the soup’s depth of flavor.

Why it works: Cooking the root vegetables before adding the lentils ensures they soften during the simmering process, contributing to the soup’s hearty texture.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste, cumin, paprika, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom, deepening the soup’s flavor profile.

Why it works: Toasting the spices with the vegetables enhances their aromas and flavors, creating a rich, well-rounded base for the soup.

Step 4: Add the Lentils and Broth

Add the red lentils, followed by the vegetable or chicken broth and the bay leaf. Stir well, then bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened.

Why it works: Simmering the lentils in the broth allows them to absorb all the flavors of the spices and vegetables, making the soup rich and satisfying.

Step 5: Blend the Soup (Optional)

Once the lentils and vegetables are soft, you can either blend the soup to a smooth texture using an immersion blender or a regular blender, or leave it chunky if you prefer a heartier consistency. If you like a creamier texture, blend it until smooth.

Why it works: Blending the soup creates a silky texture, but leaving it chunky gives the soup more body and a rustic feel.

Step 6: Add Lemon Juice

Stir in lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This step is optional but recommended, as the acidity from the lemon balances the richness of the lentils and spices.

Why it works: Lemon juice adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the soup, enhancing its flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

Why it works: The fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby note that complements the earthy flavors of the soup.

A Nourishing and Flavorful Dish

This hearty Turkish lentil soup with carrot and spice is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with nutrients, rich in flavor, and easy to prepare, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic Turkish soup, and don’t forget the lemon and parsley for a finishing touch!