Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe
Creamy Lebanese Lentil Soup made with red lentils, potatoes, carrots, and fresh lemon. A healthy, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups red lentils
- 1 medium onion cubed
- 1 large carrot peeled and cubed
- 1 small potato any type, peeled and cubed
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon 7-spice blend optional
- 12 cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 3 whole lemons juiced (approximately 3/4 to 1 cup)
- Optional toppings: Fried pita bread pieces or finely chopped caramelized onions
Instructions
Prepare the lentils and vegetables
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step ensures the soup will have a smooth, clean texture.
Cook the base
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils, cubed onion, carrot, and potato. Add 12 cups of water, filling the pot approximately three-quarters full. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lentils and vegetables are fully softened.
Blend the soup
- Once cooked, allow the soup to rest for 10 minutes. Remove any excess water if necessary and set it aside to adjust the consistency later. Blend the soup using a hand blender or a standard blender until it achieves a creamy consistency. If using a standard blender, allow the soup to cool slightly to avoid splashing.
Incorporate the spices and parsley
- Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the cumin, black pepper, salt, and optional 7-spice blend. Add the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of flavor. Simmer the soup over low heat for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the lemon juice
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference for tanginess.
Serve and garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fried pita pieces, caramelized onions, or an extra sprinkle of parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, omit the fried pita bread topping or use gluten-free pita alternatives. Ensure all spices, particularly the 7-spice blend, are gluten-free by checking the packaging.