Mercimek Çorbası (Lentil Soup)
Experience the cozy warmth of Mercimek Çorbası, a traditional Turkish lentil soup that brings together the wholesome flavors of red lentils, sweet carrots, and aromatic spices. This hearty dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup that wraps you in warmth on chilly days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 large carrot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add chopped carrots and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in the red lentils and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to achieve desired creaminess—blend until smooth or leave some texture if preferred.
- Stir in fresh lemon juice before serving. Garnish with parsley or croutons if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg