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Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Mercimek)

Name: Turkish Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 onion; 1 carrot; 1 small potato; 1 tbsp pepper or tomato paste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 6 cups water or stock; Lemon and dried mint

By the Healthy Plate team

Turkish lentil soup is served in every restaurant. Its texture is silky, and it tastes light with lemon and mint.

Why it’s good for you

Lentils rich in fibre and protein
Carrot and onion for natural flavour
Low calorie

Turkish Lentil Soup

10 minPrep

30 minCook

5Servings

160kcal

Ingredients

1 cup red lentils
1 onion
1 carrot
1 small potato
1 tbsp pepper or tomato paste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
6 cups water or stock
Lemon and dried mint

Method

Sauté onion and carrot in oil for 5 minutes.
Add paste, cumin, lentils, potato and water.
Simmer 25 minutes until everything is soft.
Blend and serve with lemon and mint.

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Tip

Serve with a lemon wedge and chilli flakes.

Serving Turkish style

Turks serve it with toasted bread and lemon. Good for suhoor and light dinners.

Variations

Add a little rice
Add smoked paprika
Add shredded boiled chicken

Frequently asked questions

Is it good for weight loss?

Yes — low calorie and filling.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, up to 3 months.

Green lentils?

They take longer and don’t turn smooth.

⚠️ For general education only. If you have a health condition or allergy, consult your doctor.