Turkish Red Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon, to serve
• Topping: 1 tbsp butter + 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrot and cook until soft, about 8 minutes.

2. 2

   Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add rinsed lentils and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

4. 4

   Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until lentils are completely soft and falling apart.

5. 5

   Blend with an immersion blender until completely smooth.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper. Thin with water if needed.

7. 7

   In a small pan, melt butter and add red pepper flakes. Cook 30 seconds until sizzling.

8. 8

   Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with spiced butter, and squeeze lemon over the top.