Turkish Lentil Soup Recipe

Turkish Lentil Soup Recipe (Mercimek Çorbası)

Turkish Lentil Soup, known locally as Mercimek Çorbası, is one of the most iconic and comforting dishes in Turkish cuisine. Found on breakfast tables, served as the first course at family dinners, and offered in traditional soup houses across the country, this humble soup represents the heart of everyday Turkish cooking. Its importance goes far beyond simplicity; it is a dish deeply connected to hospitality, nourishment, and tradition.

In recent years, Mercimek Çorbası has gained international recognition, ranking 9th in the World’s Best 100 Soups, placing it among the Top 10 soups worldwide. This recognition reflects what Turkish households have always known: a well-made lentil soup can be both deeply satisfying and nutritionally powerful.

Red lentils have been a staple in Anatolia for centuries due to their affordability, long shelf life, and high nutritional value. Modern nutritional research published in journals such as Nutrients and The Journal of Nutrition confirms that lentils are rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals that support digestion, heart health, and balanced blood sugar levels.

Smooth in texture, warming in flavor, and endlessly versatile, Turkish Lentil Soup is a timeless recipe that continues to nourish generations, whether enjoyed at home, in restaurants, or during communal meals.

Turkish Lentil Soup

With the Turkish style lentil soup recipe, you will make a soup that tastes like a restaurant. It is not always possible for most of us to go to a restaurant for soup. That's why we share the Turkish style lentil soup recipe below for you to easily prepare at home whenever you feel like it.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course soups, Turkish Soup

Cuisine Turkish, Turkish Cuisines

Servings 5 person

Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 piece onion
• 1 piece carrot
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 6 cups water or broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper

Instructions

 

Making Restaurant Style Lentil Soup

• Rinse lentils well.
• Sauté onion and carrot in oil and butter.
• Add lentils and broth.
• Cook until soft.
• Blend until smooth.
• Season and serve hot.

Notes

Rinsing lentils thoroughly and soaking them overnight helps reduce gas formation. The soup thickens as it cools, so adjust consistency before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, thoroughly rinsed

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 carrot, chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 tablespoon flour (optional)

• 6 cups water or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon ground red pepper

Preparation & Cooking Steps

1. Rinse the red lentils under plenty of water until the water runs clear.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a pot over medium heat.

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

4. Add the carrot and cook for a few minutes.

5. Stir in the flour if using, then add lentils and broth.

6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for 25–30 minutes until lentils are fully soft.

7. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.

8. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground red pepper.

9. Adjust consistency with hot water if needed and serve hot.

Tips & Tricks

• Washing lentils thoroughly helps achieve a smoother texture.

• Soaking lentils overnight can reduce gas formation.

• Using chicken or bone broth significantly enhances flavor.

• The soup thickens as it cools, so adjust consistency before serving.

• Potatoes can replace flour for a naturally gluten-free version.

Serving & Presentation

Turkish Lentil Soup is traditionally served piping hot with a drizzle of melted butter or chili-infused oil on top. It is commonly accompanied by lemon wedges, allowing each person to adjust acidity to taste. Fresh bread or Turkish flatbread is served on the side, making the meal both comforting and filling. In restaurants, the soup is often garnished simply, emphasizing its smooth texture and rich color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Turkish lentil soup healthy?

Yes. It is high in fiber and plant-based protein, supporting digestion and balanced blood sugar levels.

Does lentil soup cause gas?

Lentils may cause gas due to their fiber content. Soaking lentils overnight helps reduce this effect.

Can lentil soup raise blood sugar?

No. Lentils have a low glycemic index and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

When can babies eat lentil soup?

Lentil soup is generally suitable after 6–8 months. Spices and salt should be omitted for babies.

How long does lentil soup take to cook?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 30 minutes.

Can lentil soup be frozen?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 3 months when stored in airtight containers.

Closing Thoughts

Turkish Lentil Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort. Nourishing, affordable, and deeply rooted in Turkish culture, this soup continues to earn its place both on family tables and among the world’s most celebrated soups. Whether you are discovering Turkish cuisine for the first time or recreating a familiar favorite, Mercimek Çorbası is a recipe worth returning to again and again.