In the heart of Turkish cuisine lies Mercimek Çorbası, a traditional lentil soup that embodies the essence of comfort food. This delectable and easy-to-make soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly days or whenever your soul seeks warmth. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavors, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

For those eager to bring this comforting delight to their table, follow along as we guide you through each step, ensuring your soup turns out as perfect as intended. And for a more interactive experience, don’t forget to watch our video tutorial, which takes you through the process with visual aids to guarantee success. video link

Ingredients: The Heart of the Soup

The simplicity of the ingredients belies the rich, comforting depth of this soup:

• Red Lentils (1 cup): The star of the dish, providing a creamy texture and a hearty base.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Adds depth and richness, though vegetable stock can be a vegetarian alternative.
• Butter (50g) & Olive Oil: For sautéing and garnishing, adding a layer of flavor.
• Vegetables: Carrot (1), onion (1), and potato (1) – diced for sweetness and body.
• Garlic (2 cloves): For that aromatic punch.
• Bay Leaf (1): Infuses the soup with its distinct fragrance.
• Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Offers color and a warm, earthy taste.
• Flour (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
• Seasonings: Lemon juice, Aleppo pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste, for that perfect flavor balance.

Crafting Your Soup: Step-by-Step

1. Preparation: Begin by chopping your onion, carrot, and potato into small pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend smoothly later on.
2. Sauté: In a large pot, melt the butter and add your diced vegetables, sautéing them until they start to soften. Introduce the washed lentils, turmeric, and flour to the mix, stirring well to combine.
3. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth (or your broth of choice) along with the bay leaf. Cover and let the mixture simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender and fully cooked.
4. Blend: After removing the bay leaf, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. This step is key to achieving the classic creamy texture of Mercimek Çorbası.
5. Season: Add salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste. Adjusting these seasonings is crucial to tailor the soup to your palate.
6. Garnish: In a separate pan, warm some olive oil and sprinkle in Aleppo pepper, stirring constantly to infuse the oil without burning the spices. This spicy oil adds a vibrant kick to the soup.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzling the Aleppo pepper oil over the top for a beautiful and flavorful finish.

Closing Thoughts & Serving Suggestions

Mercimek Çorbası is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and satisfying. Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or enjoy it as a standalone meal – either way, it promises to warm you from the inside out.

We hope this recipe brings a taste of Turkey into your home and becomes a cherished addition to your comfort food collection. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more delicious recipes from around the world. Your next culinary adventure awaits!

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Have you tried making Mercimek Çorbası at home? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your stories, tips, or questions in the comments section below. Let’s continue to explore the rich and diverse world of home cooking together. Happy cooking!