Hey, food lovers!
Are you craving something warm and comforting? I’ve got a treat for you!
Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Lebanese yellow lentil soup.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with good-for-you ingredients.
Perfect for chilly days or when you’re just looking for a satisfying meal.
Grab your spoon, and let’s dive into this deliciousness!
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Red lentils can be replaced with yellow split peas or green lentils, maintaining the soup’s protein content and hearty texture. Cook time may need to be adjusted slightly, as yellow split peas and green lentils typically take longer to soften than red lentils. Olive oil can be substituted with coconut oil or avocado oil for different flavor profiles while retaining heart-healthy fats. Use the same amount as called for in the original recipe. For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water infused with vegetable bouillon. This substitution maintains the soup’s savory flavor while accommodating dietary preferences. If using water, consider adding extra herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30-40 minutes |
| Total Time | 40-55 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 25-30 g
- Fat: 20-25 g
- Carbohydrates: 60-65 g
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 medium-sized onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 large carrot
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups water (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by finely dicing the onion.
Grate the carrot and set aside.
Crush the 2 cloves of garlic and set them aside as well, ready to be added to the pot when needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat up some olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and crushed garlic to the pot.
Gently sauté them for 4-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Make sure not to let the garlic burn as this will add a bitter taste to the soup.
Step 3: Rinse and Add Lentils
While the onion and garlic are sautéing, thoroughly rinse the lentils under cold water.
This step is crucial to remove any debris or dust.
Once rinsed, add the lentils to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.
Pour in 6 cups of water or chicken broth, depending on your preference.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils have become tender.
Step 4: Add Carrot and Seasoning
After the lentils have simmered and are tender, stir in the grated carrot.
Season the soup with cumin, salt, and white pepper to taste.
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
This gives time for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your soup has simmered to perfection, garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve the lentil soup hot, and enjoy a nourishing and comforting meal.
