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Soup Dishes Cooking Time : 50 minutes Recipe Servings : 4–6 Recipe Dificult : easy 0.00

Turkish Mercimek Çorbası | Classic Turkish Red Lentil Soup

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Turkish Mercimek Çorbası is a smooth, comforting red lentil soup and one of the most beloved everyday dishes in Turkish cuisine. Made with red lentils, onions, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, and warm spices, this hearty soup has a naturally creamy texture without requiring heavy cream.

The lentils and vegetables are gently simmered until tender, then blended into a silky, flavorful soup. A small amount of cumin and paprika adds warmth, while lemon juice provides a bright finish that balances the earthy lentils and rich vegetable flavors.

Mercimek Çorbası is simple, nourishing, affordable, and perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. It is traditionally served hot with lemon wedges and crusty bread. A drizzle of paprika-infused butter or olive oil on top adds an extra layer of Turkish flavor.

Cooking Method

Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add the carrot and potato and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute.
Add the rinsed red lentils.
Pour in the broth and stir well.
Add cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Bring the soup to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until the lentils and vegetables are very tender.
Remove from the heat and carefully blend the soup until smooth.
Return the soup to low heat and add a little water or broth if it is too thick.
Simmer for another 3–5 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice.
Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges.
Drizzle with paprika butter or olive oil if desired.