Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/16 checked
6
servings
3 tbsp

olive oil

6 unit

celery ribs

diced

3 unit

carrots

peeled and diced

2 unit

onions

chopped

1 lb

dried red lentils

0.25 cup

long-grain white rice

12 cup

water

1 tbsp

lemon pepper seasoning

1 tbsp

Lawry's Seasoned Salt

2 tsp

salt

1.5 tsp

ground black pepper

0.5 tsp

ground cumin

0.25 cup

fresh lemon juice

0.25 cup

fresh parsley

for garnish

2 tbsp

butter

optional

1 tsp

dried mint

optional

Step 1
~6 min

Heat olive oil in a large stock pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2
~6 min

Add celery, carrots, and onions to the pot.

Step 3
~6 min

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to caramelize (about 10 minutes).

Step 4
~6 min

Stir in red lentils, rice, and water.

Step 5
~6 min

Cover the pot and bring to a boil.

Step 6
~6 min

Reduce heat to a simmer (medium-low), cook covered, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender (about 25 minutes).

Step 7
~6 min

Season with lemon pepper, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, and cumin.

Step 8
~6 min

Continue cooking, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until lentils break down (about 20 minutes).

Step 9
~6 min

Stir in lemon juice; adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 10
~6 min

Optionally, melt butter in a small saucepan until it begins to foam.

Step 11
~6 min

Stir dried mint into the melted butter (optional garnish).

Step 12
~6 min

Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or swirl in minted butter.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the lentils.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Garnish with a dollop of plain yogurt for added creaminess.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Soup can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Low
Smell Intensity
Moderate
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Serve with a side salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Warm pita bread
Feta cheese

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Eastern Mediterranean

Cultural Significance

Lentil soup is a staple dish in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, often consumed during Lent.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Occasion Tags

weeknight dinner
lunch
cold weather

Popularity Score

70/100

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