SAEDNEWS: Mercimek Çorbası (Red Lentil Soup) is one of Turkey’s most famous soups. You can make it at home the authentic Turkish way, using red lentils, potatoes, and carrots—just like in a restaurant.
Lentil Soup: A Beloved Starter in Turkish Cuisine
Soup holds a special place in Turkish cuisine and is commonly served as a starter in most meals. Among the many delicious soups in Turkey, lentil soup (Mercimek Çorbası) is one of the most popular. If you’ve traveled to Turkey, you’ve likely seen it on the menu of nearly every restaurant. This article provides a step-by-step guide to making traditional Turkish lentil soup.
Typically, Turkish soups are lighter and more brothy compared to others like Ezogelin soup or minestrone, making them perfect as a starter. Like many Mediterranean dishes, Turkish lentil soup is vegan and gluten-free. If you visit Turkey, be sure to try this flavorful soup. The red lentils used in it are an excellent source of B vitamins and potassium.
Red lentils: 2 cups
Onion: 1 medium
Carrot: 1 medium
Potato: 1 medium
Garlic: 1 clove
Chicken or beef stock: as needed
Turmeric and salt: to taste
Black pepper and cumin: to taste
Butter: as needed
Pul biber (Turkish red pepper flakes): as needed
Prepare the Lentils: Wash the red lentils thoroughly and set them aside.
Sauté the Onion: Chop the onion coarsely. Heat a suitable pot over medium heat, add some oil, then sauté the onion with a pinch of salt until it becomes soft and translucent.
Add Vegetables: Wash and peel the carrot and potato, then chop them coarsely. Add them to the pot along with the garlic. Sprinkle in black pepper, turmeric, and cumin, and sauté briefly.
Cook the Lentils: Add the washed lentils to the pot and sauté slightly. Pour in enough chicken or beef stock to cover the ingredients. Cover the pot and let everything cook until the vegetables and lentils are soft.
Blend the Soup: Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to mix the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a food processor or regular blender will work. Return the pot to heat and let the soup simmer briefly.
Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add pul biber and sauté lightly until the color and aroma are released.
Serve: Pour the soup into serving bowls and drizzle the sauce evenly on top. Enjoy your meal!
