Looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm up your evenings? Look no further than Mercimek Corbasi, a classic Turkish red lentil soup that is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your table. This hearty soup is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a taste of Turkey to your kitchen.
**Mercimek Corbasi**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and ground coriander, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and give everything a good stir to coat the lentils with the spices and vegetables.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Once the lentils are soft and the soup has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Ladle the Mercimek Corbasi into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
8. Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal that will warm both your body and soul.
Enjoy this comforting Mercimek Corbasi with loved ones on a chilly evening or any time you crave a taste of Turkish culinary tradition. The blend of earthy lentils, aromatic spices, and zesty lemon creates a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist. Try this recipe and add a touch of warmth to your home with every spoonful.
