Egyptian Lentil Soup (Shorbet Ads) Recipe
Egyptian Lentil Soup, also known as Shorbet Ads, is a comforting and wholesome dish featuring red lentils simmered with aromatic spices and vegetables. This traditional Egyptian soup is smooth, hearty, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect starter or light meal. The use of cumin and paprika adds warmth and depth, while optional garnishes like coconut milk, fresh cilantro, and lemon juice enhance its vibrant flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Egyptian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large carrot, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 medium shallots, roughly chopped
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cups red lentils, washed and drained
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups boiling water
Optional Garnishes
- Coconut milk
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed red pepper
- Lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Peel and roughly chop one large carrot, peel four cloves of garlic, and quarter two medium shallots to prepare them for sautéing.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, shallots, and carrot chunks, then cook gently until the vegetables soften, allowing their flavors to release.
- Add Lentils and Spices: Stir in two cups of washed red lentils, two teaspoons of ground cumin, two teaspoons of paprika, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in four cups of boiling water and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend less to keep a chunkier consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and add optional garnishes like a drizzle of coconut milk, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, crushed red pepper, and a swirl of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted broth or stock instead of water.
- Red lentils cook quickly and tend to break down, giving the soup its creamy texture.
- Optional garnishes elevate the flavor and presentation but can be omitted for a simpler soup.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Egyptian Lentil Soup, Shorbet Ads, Red Lentil Soup, Healthy Soup, Vegetarian Soup, Middle Eastern Soup
