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.

Spicy Lentil Soup (Mercimek çorbası)

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

  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and spice mixture.
  5. 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.
  6. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
  8. 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