This Arabic Lentil Soup epitomizes authentic Arabic cuisine with its precise blend of traditional spices like cumin, coriander, and Aleppo pepper, and the use of mixed lentils, fresh ginger, and garlic. The addition of tomato paste and optional pomegranate molasses provides a classic Arabic tanginess, while the garnish of fresh parsley, mint, and sumac enhances the dish with vibrant flavors. Rooted in time-honored techniques, this soup delivers an authentic and comforting taste of Arabic culinary traditions.
Arabic Lentil Soup Ingredients:
- Lentils: Velvety texture, quick-cooking, and a protein-rich base.
- Rice: Adds heartiness and complements lentils for a balanced consistency.
- Onion: Sweetness and depth, a foundational aromatic.
- Carrots: Earthy sweetness, vibrant color, and a nutritional boost.
- Garlic: Pungent aroma, savory essence, and a flavor enhancer.
- Olive Oil: Richness and depth, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Spice Blend: Provides a warm, smoky, and aromatic profile.
- Fresh Ginger: Zesty, pungent, and adds a lively kick.
- Vegetable Stock: Nourishing base, enhances flavors without overpowering.
- Bay Leaves: Aromatic foliage for subtle fragrance.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrated richness and mild tanginess.
- Pomegranate Molasses (Optional): Sweet-tart, provides a unique Middle Eastern twist.
- Fresh Parsley and Mint: Bright, herbaceous freshness as a garnish.
- Sumac (Optional): Citrusy tang, enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon Wedges: Citrusy brightness, perfect for a finishing touch.
Recipe Tips and FAQs:
How can I make this Arabic Lentil Soup creamier?
For a creamier Arabic Lentil Soup, blend a portion of the cooked soup until smooth, then combine it with the unblended portion for a velvety yet textured consistency. Adjust seasoning, and serve hot with optional garnishes like fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. This simple blending technique elevates the richness of your soup effortlessly.
Can I make this Arabic Lentil Soup in a crockpot or instapot?
Certainly! Create this Arabic Lentil Soup effortlessly by choosing either a crockpot or an Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, sauté aromatics, transfer all ingredients, cook on low for 6-8 hours, adjust seasoning, and garnish. In the Instant Pot, sauté, add ingredients, pressure cook for 8 minutes with a 10-minute natural release, adjust seasoning, and garnish. Enjoy the rich flavors of this comforting soup with your preferred cooking method.
What lentils are used in this Arabic Lentil Soup?
A combination of red lentils and green lentils are suggested. Red lentils are known for their quick-cooking nature and smooth texture, while green lentils add a bit more texture to the soup. The use of mixed lentils provides a nuanced flavor and varied consistency. However, you have the flexibility to customize the lentil combination based on your preferences or what you have available.
What could I serve with this Arabic Lentil Soup?
Arabic Lentil Soup pairs perfectly with warm flatbreads, rice, or a side of yogurt for a satisfying meal. Add freshness with a simple Mediterranean salad or a garnish of herbs like parsley and mint. Arabic-style pickles, such as pickled turnips or cucumbers, contribute a tangy crunch, and lemon wedges on the side enhance the flavors. Mix and match these accompaniments for a delightful and well-balanced dining experience.
How do I store leftover Arabic Lentil Soup?
To store leftover Arabic Lentil Soup, cool it and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, do so on the stovetop or in the microwave, adjusting consistency if needed. Prioritize food safety and discard any spoiled soup.
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Arabic Lentil Soup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup green lentils rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup rice rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground Aleppo pepper or sweet paprika
- 8 cups vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (optional)
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- fresh mint leaves chopped, for garnish
- ground sumac for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and rice in cold water and set aside.1 cup red lentils, 1/2 cup green lentils, 1/2 cup rice
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium to medium high heat. Add 1 chopped onion, cook for about 3-5 minutes or until soft. Try not to let them get brown. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Cook for another minute or until fragrant.1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh ginger
- Toss in 2 diced carrots. Stir in all of the spices except the sumac. Mix well.2 carrots, 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp ground allspice, 1 tsp ground Aleppo pepper or sweet paprika, 2 bay leaves
- Add the rinsed lentils and rice, 8 cups of vegetable stock, and the tomato paste. Stir until tomato paste is mixed in well.8 cups vegetable stock, 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils and rice are cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Salt and pepper to taste
- For sweetness, add pomegranate molasses (if desired).1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- Remove bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley, mint leaves, and optionally, sprinkle sumac. Serve with lemon wedges.fresh parsley, fresh mint leaves, ground sumac, Lemon wedges
Video
@cookinglikekate Arabic Lentil Soup – Full recipe at cookinglikekate.com
♬ 1901 – Instrumental – Phoenix
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
Loved it! Nice change to the usual soup recipes!
I am happy to hear you enjoyed it 🙂