Indulge your taste buds in the rich flavors of Southwest Asian cuisine with this delectable Turkish Spinach and Lentil Soup recipe that boasts a perfect balance of lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables. 🌿✨ Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking enthusiast, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a hearty and nutritious soup that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Turkish Spinach and Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 cup | Lentils |
| 5 cups | Nonfat beef broth |
| 1 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 cup | Olive oil |
| 2 | Onions |
| 1/4 tsp | Cayenne |
| 2 | Bay leaves |
| 1/2 cup | Bulgur |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh parsley |
| 2 | Tomatoes |
| 1/4 cup | Tomato paste |
| 1 tsp | Dried rosemary |
| – | Spinach |
| – | Parsley (for garnish) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 151.8
- Fat: 7.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 368.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 19.1g
- Fiber: 5.4g
- Sugar: 4.4g
- Protein: 4.8g
Instructions:
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🌱 Prepare Lentils: Begin by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
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🍲 Boil Lentils: In a pot, bring the lentils to a gentle boil in the nonfat beef broth. Reduce the heat and let them simmer, covered, for approximately 40 minutes or until tender.
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🌰 Saute Aromatics: Meanwhile, in a heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil. Saute the onions until translucent, then add garlic, cayenne, bay leaves, and bulgur. Stir the mixture on medium heat until the onions and bulgur are lightly browned.
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🍅 Add Vegetables: Mix in the fresh parsley and diced tomatoes. As the tomatoes release their juices, gently stir in the tomato paste. Pour the cooked lentils and their liquid into the soup pot with the onions and bulgur.
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🥄 Simmer and Season: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Add dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. If the lentils and bulgur have absorbed too much liquid, adjust the consistency by adding more broth, water, or tomato juice. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves.
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🌿 Add Spinach: Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt in the hot soup. This adds a burst of vibrant color and an extra layer of nutrition.
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🌿 Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the soup with more fresh parsley for a finishing touch. Serve this delightful creation with crusty bread for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
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📝 Notes: Enhance your dining experience by serving the soup with crusty bread. For an extra touch, broil the bread on both sides, rub it with a cut garlic clove, and drizzle it with olive oil. This simple addition complements the flavors of the soup and adds a delightful crunch.
Cooking Tips:
- To save time, prep the ingredients in advance.
- Experiment with the spice levels according to your taste preferences.
- Make it a complete meal by pairing the soup with a side salad.
With an aggregated rating of 5 stars and 25 glowing reviews, this Turkish Spinach and Lentil Soup is not only a culinary delight but also a wholesome addition to your repertoire of healthy recipes. Dive into the rich tapestry of flavors inspired by the Middle East, and savor each spoonful of this nourishing and comforting soup. Enjoy the warmth and goodness of homemade Turkish cuisine right in your own kitchen! 🥣🌟
