Spicy Lentil Soup (Mercimek çorbası)
Mercimek çorbası, or Spicy Lentil Soup, is a traditional Tatar cuisine dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This soup is a staple in Tatar households, especially during the cold winter months.
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
- Pour in the water and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Serve the spicy lentil soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 15 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 30 minutes
- Total time:
- 45 minutes
- Cooking method
- Stovetop
Nutritional facts per 1 serving
- Calories
- 200 per serving
- Protein
- 10g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 5g
Supplies
Large pot Immersion blender or regular blender
Tools
Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons
Serving suggestions
Serve the Mercimek çorbası with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips & tricks
For an extra kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Cost
$5