Afghan Lentil Soup Recipe

This hearty Afghan Lentil Soup is made with red lentils, onions, garlic, vegetable oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish. This traditional Afghan Lentil Soup recipe creates a comforting dish that is both nutritious and delicious. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Afghan Lentil Soup Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Afghan Lentil Soup Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cook for another minute until the spices are toasted and aromatic.
3. Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and spices.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
6. Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
8. Serve hot with crusty bread or naan on the side.

Recipe Tips

• Toast the Spices: Before adding them to the soup, toast the ground turmeric, cumin, and coriander in the hot oil along with the onions and garlic. This step helps to release their aromatic oils and deepen their flavors.
• Add a Flavorful Base: For added richness, start by sautéing the onions and garlic until golden brown. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor to the soup.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the soup and adds a tangy zest. Adjust the amount according to your preference for acidity.

How To Store Afghan Lentil Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the Afghan Lentil Soup to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Alternatively, you can pour the soup into freezer bags and lay them flat for easier storage. Seal tightly and label with the date. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How To Reheat Leftover Afghan Lentil Soup

On the Stovetop: Transfer the leftover Afghan Lentil Soup to a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking or drying out.

In The Microwave: Place a serving of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl loosely with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup reaches the desired temperature.

In The Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is thoroughly heated.

What To Serve Afghan Lentil Soup

Afghan Lentil Soup pairs well with crusty bread, naan, or pita. It also can be served alongside a fresh green salad, rice pilaf, couscous, yogurt, chili flakes, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?

Yes, you can use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils. Keep in mind that different types of lentils may require varying cooking times.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat to the soup, you can include chopped chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly. You can also customize the toppings and omit dairy-based garnishes.