Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, nourishing bowl that feels like a warm hug, this Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a humble yet incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables to create a soup that’s both hearty and light. Perfect for any time of year, this soup balances simplicity and richness in every spoonful, making it a staple to cherish and share with your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, turning simple pantry staples into a bowl full of comfort.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A fragrant base that gently sautés your vegetables and adds a silky mouthfeel.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Provides sweetness and depth that melts into the broth.
• 2 small carrots, shredded or finely diced (about ¾ cup): Adds a subtle natural sweetness and a lovely orange color.
• 1 small potato, chopped small (about 1 cup) or ¼ cup white rice: Gives the soup body and creaminess as it breaks down.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with its unmistakable savory warmth.
• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed and drained: The star ingredient lending protein, fiber, and a velvety texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy, slightly smoky notes that are classic to Lebanese cuisine.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
• 1 vegetable stock cube: Boosts the savory depth of the broth effortlessly.
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) water: The canvas for your soup, forming the broth that ties all ingredients together.
• For serving: 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, warm pita bread, and chopped fresh parsley to brighten and elevate the dish.

How to Make Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add finely diced onion, shredded carrots, and small chopped potatoes. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their natural sweetness. This step is crucial because it builds the foundation of rich, complex flavors that will carry through the soup.

Step 2: Garlic Awakening

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid any bitterness, but this brief hit of garlic is what makes the soup irresistibly aromatic.

Step 3: Add Lentils and Spices

Now it’s time to bring in the heart of the soup: the red lentils. Stir in the rinsed lentils, ground cumin, salt, pepper, the vegetable stock cube, and the water. Give everything a good mix to combine the flavors and ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 30 minutes. During this time, the lentils and vegetables soften and meld into a creamy, thickened soup. Be sure to check the lentils for tenderness—they should break down easily.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Once off the heat, stir in fresh lemon juice starting with 1 tablespoon. This brightens the soup and balances the earthiness beautifully. Taste and adjust lemon, salt, and pepper as you like—it’s your personal touch that will make the soup sing!

How to Serve Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and herbaceous freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the smooth, spiced soup. Don’t forget a final squeeze of lemon at the table for those who love a tangy twist.

Side Dishes

Serving this soup with warm pita bread is a match made in heaven. The soft, warm bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the flavorful broth. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon to keep things light and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in individual rustic bread bowls—this doubles as an edible dish and is sure to impress your guests. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or swirl in some yogurt or tahini to add creaminess and a stunning presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor, making it an excellent option for easy meal prep during the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup without a problem. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. Taste again and adjust seasoning—sometimes a little extra lemon juice or salt breathes new life into reheated soup.

FAQs

Can I use brown or green lentils instead of red lentils?

Brown or green lentils can be used, but they take longer to cook and won’t break down as much, so the texture of the soup will be chunkier and less creamy compared to the smooth consistency achieved with red lentils.

Is this Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s completely vegan as it uses vegetable stock and no animal products. It’s a perfect plant-based dish that still delivers rich and satisfying flavors.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Absolutely! To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper in Step 3 when you add the cumin and spices. Adjust to your preferred spice level to keep it cozy yet lively.

What can I substitute for the vegetable stock cube?

If you don’t have a stock cube on hand, feel free to use homemade vegetable broth or even water with a touch of soy sauce or miso paste for added umami. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Can this soup be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe to a slow cooker by sautéing the vegetables first and then adding all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for approximately 6 hours or until lentils and vegetables are soft.

Final Thoughts

This Lebanese Lentil Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both nourishing and indulgent without any fuss. I can’t recommend it enough for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something wholesome and delicious. Once you try it, you’ll find it becoming a beloved staple—simple, soulful, and just downright scrumptious.

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