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Mercimek Soup is a beloved Turkish dish made primarily from red lentils, vegetables, and spices. It holds a special place in Turkish cuisine, often served during family gatherings and special occasions. Typically enjoyed as a comforting starter, this hearty soup is a staple in many households across Turkey.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the chopped carrots and potato, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add the tomato paste, ground cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup.
Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your meal!
Mercimek Soup is a traditional Turkish soup made with red lentils, vegetables, and spices, known for its rich flavor and creamy texture.
Mercimek Soup originates from Turkey, where it is cherished as a nourishing and comforting dish.
The key ingredients include red lentils, onion, carrots, potato, garlic, tomato paste, cumin, and paprika.
Mercimek Soup takes approximately 45-55 minutes to prepare and cook.
Serve Mercimek Soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or a dollop of yogurt for a complete meal.