Creamy Lentil Soup Recipe with Middle Eastern Flair
Enjoy this comforting lentil soup recipe that combines rich flavors, a creamy texture, and nutritious ingredients—perfect for cozy dinners.
Equipment
- - Pot
- - Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 large Onion Aromatic base for flavor development
- 1 large Potato Adds creaminess
- 1 optional Carrot Contributes sweetness and color
- 1 cup Red Lentils The star ingredient, provides protein
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For sautéing
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor
For the Spices
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder Adds earthy warmth
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Delivers vibrant color
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat
For the Liquid
- 4 cups Water or Chicken Stock Liquid base for the soup
- 1 cube Chicken Stock Cube Enhances flavor if using water
For Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens flavor
- 1 cup Crunchy Pita Chips Provides delightful texture contrast
Instructions
How to Make Lentil Soup
- Chop the onions, potatoes, and optional carrots into small diced pieces.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Instant Pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, potatoes, and carrots, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the spices—cumin and turmeric—to the pot. Toast them for about 1 minute.
- Stir in the washed red lentils, then pour in the water or chicken stock.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 40-60 minutes on the stovetop, or seal the Instant Pot lid and cook under pressure for 15 minutes.
- Release pressure from the Instant Pot or check for doneness on the stovetop.
- Blend if desired for a smooth texture or leave it chunky.
- Serve hot with a fresh squeeze of lemon on top and sprinkle with crunchy pita chips.
Notes
Add optional fresh herbs for additional flavor. Adjust thickness by changing the amount of liquid used.