Description
Lebanese Lentil Soup (Shorbet Adas) is a flavorful, hearty, and nutritious dish made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal. A splash of lemon juice adds brightness, while optional toppings like fried pita bread and caramelized onions take this traditional soup to the next level.
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
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2.5 cups red lentils
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 large carrot, peeled and diced
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1 small potato, peeled and diced
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12 cups water
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2 teaspoons ground cumin
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1 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon 7-spice mix (optional)
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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3 lemons, juiced (about ¾–1 cup)
- For Toppings (Optional):
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Fried pita bread
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Caramelized onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils and Vegetables: Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. In a large pot, combine the lentils, diced onion, carrot, and potato.
- Cook the Soup: Add the water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth and creamy. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
- Season and Simmer: Return the soup to the pot. Stir in cumin, black pepper, salt, and 7-spice mix (if using). Simmer for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Lemon Juice and Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with fried pita bread and caramelized onions, if desired.
Notes
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add ground cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked chickpeas or white beans to increase protein content.
- Rice Addition: Stir in short-grain rice for a heartier, porridge-like consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: Lebanese
