Spicy Red Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası)
Mercimek Çorbası, also known as Spicy Red Lentil Soup, is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine that is both nutritious and flavorful. This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day and is a popular choice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups red lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- Add the rinsed red lentils and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
- Serve the Mercimek Çorbası hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking & Preparation
- Preparation time:
- 10 minutes
- Cooking time:
- 25 minutes
- Total time:
- 35 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 Soup bowls Ladle
Tools
Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon
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 to the soup before serving.
Cost
$8