Print

Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup Recipe

4.8 from 150 reviews

Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup is a nourishing and comforting bowl of goodness that combines hearty red lentils, aromatic spices, and bright fresh lemon juice. This vegan and gluten-free soup offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and zesty flavor, ideal for a wholesome meal or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or any neutral oil
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced

For the Spices

  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Red Lentils (substitute with brown or green lentils, adjust cooking time by 1015 minutes)
  • 1/2 cup Rice or quinoa, bulgur, or cauliflower rice for lower-carb
  • 1 teaspoon Salt, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper, adjust to taste
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice or lime juice as an alternative

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil: Begin by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a medium-sized Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in the cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Stir well to coat the onion and garlic with the spices.
  4. Add Lentils and Rice: Toss in the red lentils, rice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Pour Broth and Simmer: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the lentils and rice are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  6. Adjust Consistency: If the soup seems too thick, add additional broth to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, tasting as you go to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still warm for comforting enjoyment.

Notes

  • This vegan and gluten-free soup is perfect for meal prep and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
  • You can substitute red lentils with brown or green lentils but expect a longer cooking time of 10-15 minutes.
  • For a lower-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
  • Ensure vegetable broth is gluten-free if needed.

Keywords: Lebanese Lemon Lentil Soup, Vegan Lentil Soup, Gluten Free Soup, Comfort Food, Healthy Soup, Lentil Soup Recipe