Discover a bowl of warmth and comfort with our delightful Lentil and Okra Soup, a Middle Eastern gem that will tantalize your taste buds! Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of a bustling market. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a nourishing lunch, this recipe is quick to prepare and will leave your family asking for seconds. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure that’s both healthy and hearty? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils. Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper into the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are almost tender.
- Add the sliced okra to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the okra is soft and the lentils are completely cooked.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any impurities. This step ensures a clean and delicious soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions and garlic until golden enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Simmer for Perfection: Allow the soup to simmer gently. This slow cooking process helps the lentils absorb the spices and develop a rich taste.
- Okra Timing: Add the okra towards the end of the cooking time to keep its texture intact. Overcooking can make it slimy, so aim for a tender yet firm consistency.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick!
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
