Comforting Turkish Red Lentil Soup with Paprika
Experience the warm embrace of Turkish Red Lentil Soup, a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and comfort. Created using the finest red lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, this soup is a staple of Turkish cuisine that brings warmth to chilly evenings. Easy to prepare, this gluten-free, vegetarian soup serves as a nourishing option for midweek meals or cozy gatherings, making it an excellent choice for the changing seasons. Pair it with crusty bread for a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.
N/A
Servings
120
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
red lentil
1 cup (washed and cleaned)
vegetable stock
4 cups (ready to use)
mild onion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
white potato
1/2 cup (peeled and diced)
paprika
1 teaspoon (ground)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Rinse the red lentils in a colander under cold water until the water runs clear, ensuring any debris or damaged beans are removed.
2
In a medium pot, combine the washed lentils with vegetable stock, diced potatoes, finely chopped onions, and paprika.
3
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot loosely, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
4
Simmer the soup for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
5
Once cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper according to taste.
6
Remove about one cup of the soup and blend it until smooth using a blender or food processor, then carefully return it to the pot with the reserved soup. Stir to combine.
7
Heat the soup on low until it is warmed through, stirring occasionally.
8
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread if desired.
Nutrition Information
0.5g
Fat
21g
Carbs
6g
Protein
6g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Turkish Red Lentil Soup?
Turkish Red Lentil Soup is a traditional, comforting dish made with red lentils, potatoes, and aromatic spices like paprika, popular for its smooth texture and warming qualities.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian as it uses vegetable stock and plant-based ingredients.
Is the soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the core ingredients including lentils, vegetables, and spices are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving of this soup contains approximately 120 calories.
What type of lentils should I use?
This recipe specifically calls for red lentils, which cook faster and break down more easily than green or brown lentils to create a creamy texture.
Do I need to soak the red lentils before cooking?
No soaking is required for red lentils. You only need to rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear.
How long does it take to cook this soup?
The soup needs to simmer for approximately 30 to 40 minutes until the lentils and potatoes are completely tender.
Can I use water instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, you can use water, though vegetable stock is recommended for a richer and more savory flavor profile.
How do I achieve a creamy texture?
The recipe suggests removing one cup of the soup, blending it until smooth, and then stirring it back into the pot.
Can I blend the entire batch of soup?
Yes, if you prefer a completely smooth and silky consistency, you can blend the entire pot of soup instead of just a portion.
What should I serve with Turkish Red Lentil Soup?
It is traditionally served hot and pairs excellently with crusty bread or a side of fresh lemon wedges.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.
What kind of potato is best for this recipe?
A standard white potato works best as it provides starch that helps thicken the soup during the simmering process.
How much protein is in this soup?
This soup provides about 6 grams of protein per serving.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes, carrots or celery would be great additions; just ensure they are diced finely so they cook in the same timeframe as the lentils.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, Turkish Red Lentil Soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What is the purpose of paprika in this recipe?
Paprika adds a subtle earthy sweetness and a vibrant reddish color to the soup.
Is the soup spicy?
No, the recipe uses standard paprika and black pepper which provides a mild flavor rather than heat.
What is considered a 'mild onion'?
A yellow onion or a sweet onion is considered mild and works best for this flavor profile.
Can I use an immersion blender?
Yes, an immersion blender is very convenient for blending a portion of the soup directly in the pot.
How much fiber is in this recipe?
This soup is high in fiber, containing 6 grams per serving.
Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock?
Yes, if you do not have dietary restrictions, chicken stock can be used for a deeper savory flavor.
Why do I need to rinse the lentils?
Rinsing removes any dust, debris, or excess surface starch, ensuring the soup has a better texture and cleaner flavor.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, then follow the blending step at the end.
Is this a good recipe for weight loss?
With only 120 calories and low fat content (0.5g), this is a nutrient-dense and filling option suitable for many weight loss plans.
Can I add lemon juice?
While not in the core ingredients, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving is a very common and delicious Turkish tradition.
What is the fat content?
The soup is very low in fat, containing only 0.5 grams per serving.
How many ingredients are required?
This recipe requires 7 main ingredients: red lentils, vegetable stock, onion, potato, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd; just ensure your pot is large enough to hold the extra liquid.