Turkish
Mercimek Çorbası (Red Lentil Soup)
A staple in Turkish cuisine, this creamy red lentil soup is simple, nutritious, and comforting, typically finished with a drizzle of spicy butter and lemon juice.
Watch it madeBayan · 1:12
Ingredients
- Red Lentils1 cup
- Onion1 medium
- Carrot1 medium
- Potato1 small
- Vegetable Stock1.5 liters
- Butter2 tbsp
- Dried Mint1 tsp
Method
- Sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and potato in a little oil until softened.
- Add the washed red lentils, vegetable stock, salt, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are soft.
- Blend the soup with an immersion blender until completely smooth and creamy.
- In a small pan, melt butter and stir in paprika and dried mint until sizzling.
- Serve the soup hot, drizzled with the spiced butter and a squeeze of lemon.
Common questions
Can I substitute butter or make the spiced topping dairy-free for mercimek çorbası?
Yes. Use olive oil or a neutral oil instead of butter, then bloom the paprika and dried mint briefly in the hot oil. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it still gives the soup its classic finish.
How long does red lentil soup take to cook, and when are the lentils done?
From sautéing to serving, expect about 30–35 minutes. The lentils are done when they break down easily and the vegetables are fully soft. If the soup still feels grainy, simmer a few minutes longer.
What are the most common mistakes when making Mercimek Çorbası?
The biggest mistakes are not rinsing the lentils, using too little liquid, and adding the butter-spice topping too early. Also avoid skipping the blend: the soup should be completely smooth for the classic texture.
How should I store and reheat leftover red lentil soup?
Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in a covered container for up to 4 days. It thickens as it sits, so reheat gently with a splash of water or stock. Freeze for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with mercimek çorbası?
Serve it hot with lemon wedges, warm crusty bread, or Turkish flatbread. A little extra dried mint, chili flakes, or a drizzle of spiced butter on top makes it feel more authentic and balanced.