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Lebanese Red Lentil Soup (Shorbet Adas)

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A comforting, silky Lebanese red lentil soup (Shorbet Adas) made with red lentils, onions, carrots, cumin, and lemon juice. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, it’s an easy, nourishing dish perfect for any day of the week.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop or Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: Lebanese
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 medium yellow onions, chopped
  • 2 large carrots, chopped finely
  • 1.5 tablespoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 cups dried red lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups water (or vegetable broth for more flavor)
  • Juice of 3 large lemons
  • Pita chips, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse red lentils under cool water, removing any debris. Drain and set aside.
  2. Chop onions and carrots. Juice the lemons and set aside.
  3. In a large pot or Instant Pot set to “Sauté,” heat olive oil. Add onions, carrots, and salt. Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and slightly golden.
  4. Add cumin and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add rinsed lentils and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
  6. Pour in 6 cups of water. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes (or in Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with natural release for 10 minutes).
  7. Turn off heat, add lemon juice, and blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches with the lid slightly ajar for steam to escape.
  8. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, topped with pita chips and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth instead of water for a deeper flavor.
  • Add a clove of garlic with the onions for extra aroma.
  • Spice it up with chili flakes or a touch of black pepper.
  • Add turmeric for a golden color and added earthiness.
  • Soup thickens as it cools—add water when reheating if needed.

Nutrition