Shorbat Adas (Red Lentil Soup with Vegetables)

Shorbat Adas is a staple, comforting soup across the Middle East, renowned for its simplicity, heartiness, and incredible depth of flavor. This red lentil soup is naturally vegan, packed with nutrients, and can be customized endlessly.

Here is a classic, aromatic recipe that balances earthy lentils with bright spices and vegetables.

Shorbat Adas (Red Lentil & Vegetable Soup)

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 35-40 min | Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups red lentils (masoor dal), rinsed well
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 ribs celery, diced
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large potato (russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and diced (optional, for thickness)
1 tbsp tomato paste
8 cups vegetable broth or water (broth is preferred for depth)
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp turmeric (for color and warmth)
Salt and black pepper to taste
A pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the “Tadka” / Tempering (Tahiniyya – Optional but Essential for Flavor):

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 tsp cumin seeds
½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Soup Base:

In a large pot, heat 3 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of cayenne. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Add the rinsed lentils, diced potato (if using), and broth/water. Bring to a boil.

2. Simmer:

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are completely tender and falling apart.

3. Blend (Optional for Creaminess):

For a smooth and creamy soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée until smooth. You can also transfer in batches to a blender.
For a chunky, rustic soup: Use a potato masher to partially mash some of the lentils, leaving texture. Or leave as is.
Season generously with salt and black pepper.

4. Prepare the Tadka (Tempered Oil Topping):

In a small skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and cook until golden and crispy at the edges.
Add the sliced garlic and cumin seeds. Cook for 30-60 seconds until the garlic is golden and the seeds are fragrant—be careful not to burn.
Immediately remove from heat and stir in the paprika. This sizzling, fragrant oil is the flavor bomb.

5. Final Assembly:

Stir the fresh lemon juice into the soup pot. This brightens the entire dish.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Drizzle each serving generously with the prepared tadka (onions, garlic, and all the flavored oil).
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips & Variations:

The Lemon is Non-Negotiable: The acidity cuts through the earthiness of the lentils. Don’t skip it.
Texture Control: Red lentils dissolve easily. For a broth-y soup, use less blending. For a thick, porridge-like consistency (common in many homes), blend fully.
Add Greens: Stir in 2 cups of chopped spinach, kale, or Swiss chard 5 minutes before the end of cooking.
Make it Heartier: Add ½ cup of rice or small pasta (like orzo) with the lentils (you may need more liquid).
For a Creamier Version: Stir in ¼ cup of coconut milk or a drizzle of tahini at the end.
Spice Variations: Add a cinnamon stick or a bay leaf while simmering for more warmth. Some recipes include a dash of Baharat (Middle Eastern spice blend).
Toppings Galore: Serve with toasted pita bread, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of sumac.

Serving Tradition:

Shorbat Adas is often enjoyed as a starter or a light main course, especially during Ramadan to break the fast (Iftar), as it is gentle, nutritious, and hydrating. It’s also a beloved winter comfort food.

This soup is forgiving, healthy, and develops even more flavor the next day. Enjoy the deep, comforting warmth of this Middle Eastern classic