Name: Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup dried red lentils; 1/2 cup white rice, uncooked; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Why Make This Recipe

Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup is a warm and hearty dish that warms the soul. It’s rich in protein and fiber from the lentils and rice. This soup is not just filling but also packed with flavors and nutrients. The bright lemon juice adds a refreshing twist, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. It’s simple to make and uses everyday ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.

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How to Make Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup

Ingredients

Olive oil
Small onion, diced
Garlic cloves, minced or pressed
Cumin
Turmeric
Paprika
Dried red lentils
White rice, uncooked
Vegetable broth
Fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
Add Spices: Stir in cumin, turmeric, and paprika, coating the onions and garlic with the spices.
Incorporate Lentils and Rice: Add the red lentils, rice, salt, and pepper. Stir for 3-5 minutes as the lentils and rice release moisture.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils and rice are soft. Add extra broth for desired consistency.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
Blend for Creaminess (Optional): Use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture.
Serve: Enjoy warm with pita or crusty bread.

How to Serve Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. It goes great with warm pita bread or a slice of crusty bread for dipping. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

How to Store Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup

Let the soup cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup

For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste; add more for a tangier soup.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip blending the soup.

Variation

You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition. Some people like to add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary.

2. Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely plant-based and suitable for vegans.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.