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.

Spicy Red Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası)

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

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
  4. 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.
  5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
  7. 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