Mercimek Corbasi

Mercimek çorbası, also known as Turkish lentil soup, is a beloved dish in Turkish cuisine. This hearty and nutritious soup is made with red lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a flavorful and comforting meal. Mercimek çorbası is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners or as a starter for a larger meal. In this article, we will explore the flavors of mercimek çorbası, provide you with a traditional recipe, and offer some tips for serving and variations.

The Flavors of Mercimek Çorbası: Mercimek çorbası is characterized by its creamy texture, thanks to the red lentils that break down during cooking. The soup is often flavored with onions, garlic, and a combination of spices such as cumin and paprika. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit individual preferences, with some variations adding additional vegetables or a hint of tanginess from lemon juice. The finished soup is typically garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Recipe: Traditional Mercimek Çorbası

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley or mint, for garnish
• Extra olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
2. Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir to combine them with the onion and garlic mixture.
3. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and paprika, stirring well to coat the lentils and vegetables with the spices.
4. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft and cooked through.
5. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be sure to blend in batches and exercise caution with hot liquids.
6. Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
7. Heat the soup over low heat for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve the mercimek çorbası hot, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or mint, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Variations and Tips:

• For added texture and flavor, you can sauté chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions and garlic.
• Some variations of mercimek çorbası include a touch of tanginess by adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the soup before serving.
• To make the soup even more substantial, you can add cooked rice or bulgur wheat.
• If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder.
• Mercimek çorbası is traditionally served with crusty bread or a side of pilaf.