Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

This Lebanese lemon lentil soup recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s a perfect choice for springtime gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The vibrant flavors of turmeric and garlic combined with the zesty lemon make this creamy soup a standout option. Best of all, it’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly, ensuring it can be enjoyed by everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein-rich lentils and rice, this soup will keep you satisfied.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginner cooks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika creates a rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with pita or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Choice: Loaded with nutrients, this soup is low in calories while being high in fiber.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Lebanese lemon lentil soup efficiently, you’ll want to have the right tools at your disposal.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Hand blender

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering soups without burning.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning for balanced flavors.
• Knife & cutting board: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Hand blender: Perfect for achieving a creamy texture without transferring hot soup to a blender.

Ingredients

This fresh Lebanese lemon lentil soup is a hearty soup perfect for springtime. Flavored with turmeric and garlic, it’s a creamy lemon lentil soup that is also vegetarian and vegan.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 ½ cup dried red lentils
– ½ cup white rice, uncooked
– 5 cups vegetable broth
– Juice of one large lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil

In a medium-sized dutch oven warm olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spices

Add the cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Coat the seasonings in the olive oil.

Step 4: Mix in Lentils and Rice

Add lentils, rice, salt, and pepper. Coat the lentil mixture in the olive oil and spices. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the rice and lentils start to sweat.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until the rice and lentils are soft.

Step 6: Stir Occasionally

Stir occasionally throughout cooking. Add more vegetable broth if needed to maintain desired consistency.

Step 7: Add Lemon Juice

Once cooked, add the lemon juice. Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 8: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat. Use a hand blender to blend until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve warm with pita bread or crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your delicious Lebanese lemon lentil soup!

How to Serve Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

Serving Lebanese lemon lentil soup is an opportunity to elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Enjoy the soup with warm, fluffy pita bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the rich flavors beautifully.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the soup before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and color.

Add a Squeeze of Extra Lemon

• Enhance the zesty flavor by adding an extra squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens up the dish.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• Pair the soup with a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed in olive oil and lemon. This complements the flavors perfectly.

Serve with Yogurt or Plant-Based Yogurt

• A dollop of plain yogurt or a plant-based alternative provides creaminess and balances the soup’s spices.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and depth to each bowl. It’s a simple yet effective finishing touch.

How to Perfect Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

To make your Lebanese lemon lentil soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions, garlic, and herbs for optimal flavor and nutrition in your soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more vegetable broth until reaching your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like coriander or black pepper for additional layers of flavor.
• Cook Lentils Properly: Ensure lentils are cooked until soft but not mushy, preserving their texture in the soup.
• Blend Thoroughly: For a creamier texture, blend the soup well but leave some chunks for added interest.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy your soup while it’s hot for the best taste experience, especially during cool weather.

Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Lebanese lemon lentil soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Tabbouleh Salad
   A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and mint dressed in lemon juice and olive oil.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like carrots and bell peppers roasted until caramelized bring natural sweetness alongside the soup.
3. Hummus and Veggies
   Creamy hummus served with crunchy veggies like carrots and celery makes for a nutritious addition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves
   Delicious grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and spices add an authentic Middle Eastern flair.
5. Fattoush Salad
   A vibrant salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, tomatoes, and crispy pita chips tossed in a tangy dressing.
6. Cheese or Plant-Based Cheese Platter
   A variety of cheeses or plant-based alternatives paired with nuts and fruits can complement the hearty soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lebanese lemon lentil soup, a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to a flat-tasting soup. Always cook these ingredients until soft to enhance flavors.
• Not rinsing lentils: Unrinsed lentils may carry excess starch or debris. Rinse them under cold water before adding them to your pot for a cleaner taste.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in potency; not tasting before serving can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
• Overcooking the lentils: Overcooked lentils can turn mushy and lose their shape. Keep an eye on them during cooking and remove from heat when they’re tender but still intact.
• Using old spices: Spices lose their potency over time. Ensure your cumin, turmeric, and paprika are fresh for maximum flavor in your soup.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lebanese lemon lentil soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

• Freeze your soup for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup?

Lebanese lemon lentil soup is a hearty, flavorful dish made with red lentils, rice, spices, and fresh lemon juice. It’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

How do I make Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup creamy?

To achieve creaminess without dairy, blend the cooked soup thoroughly using a hand blender until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I customize the Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to prepare Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup?

The total time for this recipe is about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Conclusion

This Lebanese lemon lentil soup is not only delicious but also versatile—perfect for any occasion. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices to suit your tastes. Try making it today for a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy!

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