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–+ servings

Authentic Lebanese Red Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas)

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Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 6 person
Course
SOUPS
Cuisine
#Middle Eastern
International
Lebanese
Mediterranean
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Description

Discover the best authentic Lebanese red lentil soup (Shorbat Adas). A comforting, velvety split lentil soup seasoned perfectly with warm cumin and fresh lemon.

Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup split red lentils
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 medium carrot peeled and diced
  • 1 large potato peeled and diced
  • 3 medium onions minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 5½ cups water
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube optional (or vegetable bouillon for a vegan version)
  • Salt to taste
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper for serving
  • 1 celery stalk diced (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Sort and Rinse
    Spread the split red lentils on a clean countertop or surface and remove any pebbles or debris that may be mixed in with them. Place them in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs completely clear. Set aside to drain.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Onions
    In a large saucepan or pot, add the olive oil and minced onions. Place over medium-high heat and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions start to soften, turn translucent, and gently change color.
  • Step 3: Add Vegetables & Lentils
    Add the diced carrot, diced potato, and diced celery stalk (if using) to the pot. Stir the vegetables together with the onions for about a minute to let them absorb the flavors. Add the rinsed red lentils, ground cumin, and the chicken or vegetable bouillon cube.
  • Step 4: Simmer the Soup
    Pour in the 5½ cups of water and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, making sure to skim off any foam or scum that rises to the surface. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are completely tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Step 5: Purée to Velvety Smoothness
    Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a completely smooth, rich, and velvety texture. (If using a regular countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly, blend in small batches, and return it to the pot). If the soup feels too thick, stir in a small splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Step 6: Final Simmer and Serve
    Place the pot back over low heat and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring gently. To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls, add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice, a light drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Top with a handful of toasted or fried pita croutons. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

 
 
 
 
Keyword Lemon Juice, lentils, Olive Oil, red lentils
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