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Turkish Mercimek Çorbası (Lentil Soup):

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Authentic Turkish Mercimek Çorbası (Lentil Soup) Recipe

Mercimek Çorbası, or Turkish Lentil Soup, is a beloved staple in Turkish cuisine. It's comforting, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for any season, this hearty soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Here’s how to make this classic dish:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (hot or mild, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preparation

Start by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and any debris. Once clean, drain the lentils well.

2. Sautéing

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Next, add the diced carrots and potatoes, sautéing for a few more minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste and mix well with the vegetables. Then, add the paprika, cumin, and dried mint. Allow the spices to cook for a couple of minutes until they release their aromas, enhancing the flavor of the soup.

4. Adding Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the lentils and vegetables are tender.

6. Puree

Remove the soup from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

7. Season

Season your Mercimek Çorbası with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.

8. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Add a slice of lemon to each bowl – a squeeze of lemon juice just before eating adds a delightful freshness to the soup.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Yogurt: Add a dollop of yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sauté a chopped chili pepper with the onions.

Conclusion

Mercimek Çorbası is not only a delicious and wholesome meal but also a great way to experience the flavors of Turkish cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a warming dish to serve guests, this lentil soup is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking and savor every spoonful of this traditional Turkish delight!