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Egyptian Red Lentil Soup
A simple yet deeply comforting Egyptian red lentil soup, flavored with aromatic cumin and brightened with fresh lemon. This dish, known as 'Ads' in Egypt, is a staple for its nourishing qualities and ease of preparation.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Red lentils
- 1 medium Yellow onion
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Ground cumin
- 6 cups Vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 Lemon
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 2
Add the rinsed red lentils and the vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are very tender and have started to break down.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 3
Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a smoother soup, blend until completely smooth. For a slightly chunkier texture, blend less. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender (be cautious with hot liquids) or mash it with a potato masher.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 4
Stir in the ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your preferred consistency. Gently reheat the soup over low heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but do not boil.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes - 5
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup, and crusty bread for dipping.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of turmeric along with the cumin.
- ✓This soup is excellent for meal prep as it thickens upon standing. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating if needed.
- ✓Serve with a drizzle of good quality olive oil for richness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a diced carrot or a small sweet potato along with the onions for added sweetness and nutrients.
- For a heartier meal, serve topped with crispy fried onions (similar to the topping for Kushari) and a dollop of plain yogurt.