Luxurious Middle Eastern Red Lentil Soup

As a chef who specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine, I can tell you that this version of red lentil soup represents the pinnacle of comfort food in the region. The combination of aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and creamy lentils creates a deeply satisfying and nutritious meal.

Why This Recipe Works

This soup achieves its silky texture through the perfect balance of red lentils and vegetables, while the turmeric and cumin provide warming depth. The crispy spiced croutons add a delightful textural contrast to the creamy soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 cup red lentils (200g)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium potato, cubed
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 packet chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian version)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup lemon juice (120ml)
• ¼ cup olive oil (60ml)
• 7 cups hot water (1.65L)

For the Spiced Croutons:

• 6 slices toast bread, cubed
• ½ cup olive oil (120ml)
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• ½ teaspoon hot pepper or paprika

Detailed Method

Preparing the Base

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent
3. Add diced potatoes, cook for 2 minutes
4. Add carrots, sauté for another 2 minutes
5. Cover vegetables with hot water and cook until slightly tender

Adding Lentils

1. Wash red lentils thoroughly and drain
2. Add lentils to vegetables
3. Add chicken stock
4. Pour in 5 cups hot water
5. Add turmeric, cumin, and black pepper
6. Add additional 2 cups water

Making Spiced Croutons

1. Cut bread into small cubes
2. Mix olive oil with dried mint and hot pepper/paprika
3. Toss bread cubes in spiced oil
4. Spread on lined baking tray
5. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden and crispy

Finishing the Soup

1. Cook until lentils are very tender
2. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender
3. Add lemon juice to taste
4. Stir in olive oil
5. Adjust seasoning

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use red lentils for quickest cooking and smoothest texture
• Add potato for extra creaminess
• Don’t skip the final olive oil – it adds richness
• Make extra croutons – they’re addictive!
• Serve immediately while croutons are crispy

Nutrition Information

(Per serving – serves 6)

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Iron: 4mg

Storage and Reheating

Store soup in airtight container for up to 5 days. Store croutons separately in airtight container. When reheating, add water if needed to adjust consistency.

Serving Suggestions

I recommend serving this soup:

• Topped with crispy croutons
• With a squeeze of fresh lemon
• Drizzle of good olive oil
• Fresh parsley garnish
• Alongside warm pita bread

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes
• Heartier: Add chopped spinach at the end
• Traditional: Skip the potato and increase lentils

This Middle Eastern Red Lentil Soup is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of traditional flavors and techniques. The combination of creamy lentils, aromatic spices, and crunchy spiced croutons creates a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for cold days or any time you crave a comforting bowl of goodness.