Best Armenian Lentil Soup Recipes

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ARMENIAN LENTIL SOUP



Armenian Lentil Soup image

From Neva & Jim Brackett's 7 Secrets Cookbook. Makes a very healthy meal that's delicious! Spinach and tomatoes are added after the cooking is completed to keep their distinct green and red color, and give the soup eye appeal. I usually freeze half of this recipe to feed my family of four again later.

Provided by Enjolinfam

Categories     Lentil

Time 1h15m

Yield 12 cups, 12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 1/2 cups lentils
10 cups water
1/2 cup brown rice
1 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons Braggs liquid aminos (can use soy sauce instead, but Braggs is healthier)
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon salt (this is the amount the cookbook suggests, but I usually use about a 1/2 Tbsp salt so you might want )
1 tablespoon chicken-flavored vegetarian seasoning (I use McKay's Chicken Seasoning which is like chicken bouillon but it's vegetarian and healthier)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dill weed
2 teaspoons cumin
1 cup frozen chopped spinach
15 ounces diced tomatoes
ginger (optional, this is an option my family adds because we like a little ginger flavor)

Steps:

  • Place all ingredients in kettle except spinach and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour or until lentils are tender.
  • Add spinach and simmer 1 minute. Add tomatoes just before serving.
  • Leftovers can easily be frozen for another meal. I usually just freeze the soup in a ziplock freezer bag. Take it out the day before and put it in the fridge to thaw. Then reheat over the stove in a pot.

ARMENIAN APRICOT LENTIL SOUP



ARMENIAN APRICOT LENTIL SOUP image

Categories     Soup/Stew     Bean     Quick & Easy

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 onions, diced
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tablespoon ground cumin
3 cups red lentils, rinsed
10 cups water
12 ounces dried apricots, chopped (I used half Turkish and half California apricots)
salt

Steps:

  • Heat oil over medium heat in a dutch oven or large soup pot. Add the onions and carrots and saute for 10 minutes. Add the cumin and stir. Lower the heat, cover, and let the vegetables sweat for 10 minutes. Add the lentils and add enough water to cover. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender. Add more water as needed during the cooking. Remove from heat and add the apricots. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth (or use a regular blender and blend in batches); season with salt to taste.

ARMENIAN LENTIL SOUP



Armenian Lentil Soup image

Provided by Jo Robinson

Categories     Soup/Stew     Tomato     Sauté     Dinner     Legume     Lentil     Healthy     Advance Prep Required     Vegan     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Dairy Free     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     Kosher

Yield 6 cups (about 4 servings)

Number Of Ingredients 16

1‑2 medium garlic cloves
1 cup dried lentils, preferably black, green (French), or red
4‑5 cups low-sodium vegetable or meat broth
1/2 cup coarsely chopped dried apricots
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, preferably unfiltered
1/2 cup chopped pungent red or yellow onion
1 red, green, yellow, or orange bell pepper, cut into 1/2‑inch dice
3 1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes, with their seeds, or 1 28‑ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 medium unpeeled eggplant, cut into 1/2‑inch cubes
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar, firmly packed
1 tablespoon vinegar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice or ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more or less to taste
1 teaspoon salt, or more or less to taste
4 tablespoons chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley or chopped fresh mint for garnish

Steps:

  • Push the garlic through a garlic press and set aside. Rinse the lentils and put them in a large pot. Add 4 cups broth and the apricots, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer while you prepare the remaining ingredients, about 20 minutes.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté 4-5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Add all remaining ingredients except the herbs. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Add the vegetable mixture to the lentils and simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Adjust the seasonings. If the soup is too thick, add more broth. Ladle the soup into large bowls, garnish with the chopped herbs, and serve.

ARMENIAN LENTIL SOUP



ARMENIAN LENTIL SOUP image

Categories     Soup/Stew     Bean     Dinner     Simmer

Yield 6 Bowls

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 1/2c Dried Lentils
6c Vegetable Stock
1/2c Dried Apricots (chopped)
3T Vegetable Oil
1c Onion (Chopped)
3c Eggplant (Salted & cubed)
1 1/2c Tomatoes (Chopped)(Canned is acceptable)
1 Green Pepper (Chopped)
1/4t Cinnamon
1/4t Ground Allspice
1/4t Cayenne
1T Paprika
1 1/2t Salt
3T Parsley (Fresh & Chopped)
1T Mint (Fresh & Chopped)

Steps:

  • Rinse the lentils and bring them to a boil in the stock. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Add the apricots and simmer for another 20 minutes. Meanwhile, saute the onions until translucent. Add the eggplant and 5 tablespoons of water. Cover and cook on medium, stirring occaisionally until eggplant is almost tender. Add everything else and cook another 10 minutes. Stir the sauteed vegetables into the lentils and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the Parsley and Mint just before serving.

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What is Armenian Lentil Soup?

Armenian lentil soup is a traditional dish that has been prepared for generations in Armenian households. This soup is a staple during the colder months and is a great way to warm up on a chilly evening. Lentils are the star ingredient of this soup, providing a rich texture and deep, earthy flavor.

Historical Background

Lentil dishes have been a staple in Armenian cuisine since ancient times. Armenian lentil soup recipes have been passed down from generation to generation and have become a part of Armenian culture. Armenians have a deep connection to their food, and the preparation of dishes like lentil soup is a way to keep their heritage alive.

Why is it Popular?

Armenian lentil soup has gained popularity over the years because it is a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal. It is a great vegetarian option, as it is packed with protein and fiber. Lentils are also incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it easy to customize the soup to your liking.

Ingredients Used in Armenian Lentil Soup

Armenian lentil soup typically includes ingredients like lentils, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, and herbs like thyme and parsley. Some recipes also include carrots, celery, and other vegetables. The use of traditional Armenian spices like paprika and cumin adds depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.

Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are incredibly nutritious and are a great source of protein, fiber, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Eating lentils has been linked to a number of health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and improved digestion.

Variations of Armenian Lentil Soup

There are many variations of Armenian lentil soup, each with its own unique twist. Some recipes call for the addition of meat, like lamb or beef, while others keep it vegetarian. Some recipes use lemon juice to add brightness to the soup, while others include more spices to create a bold and flavorful broth.

How to Make Armenian Lentil Soup

While every Armenian lentil soup recipe is unique, there are a few basic steps to follow when making this traditional dish. First, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until they are translucent. Then, add diced tomatoes and cook until they have broken down. Next, add lentils, potatoes, and any other vegetables, followed by enough water or vegetable broth to cover everything. Finally, simmer the soup until the lentils are tender and the vegetables have softened. Serve hot with crusty bread and enjoy!

In Conclusion

Armenian lentil soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that has a long history in Armenian culture. With its hearty texture and robust flavor, it’s no wonder that this soup has gained popularity in recent years. Whether enjoyed as a vegetarian meal or with the addition of meat, it is sure to warm you up on even the coldest of days.

Armenian Lentil Soup: Valuable Tips to Make a Tasty Dish Lentil soup is a popular dish in many cultures, including Armenian. This hearty soup is loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. While there are many variations of Armenian lentil soup, some tips can help you create a delicious and authentic dish. Here are some valuable tips to make Armenian lentil soup recipes: 1. Choose the right type of lentils Lentils come in various types, including brown, green, yellow, and red. For Armenian lentil soup, brown or green lentils work best as they retain their shape and texture when cooked. Yellow or red lentils tend to become mushy and are better suited for soups with a smoother consistency. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and pick out any debris or stones. Soak the lentils for at least 30 minutes before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. 2. Use traditional Armenian herbs and spices Armenian lentil soup is known for its bold and savory flavor, thanks to a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Some of the essential seasonings include: - Cumin: This spice adds a smoky and earthy flavor to the soup. - Coriander: Coriander seeds, ground or whole, help balance the flavors of the other spices. - Mint: Fresh or dried mint provides a refreshing and cooling taste to the soup. - Paprika: Paprika gives the soup its reddish hue and mild spiciness. - Bay leaf: Bay leaf adds a subtle floral and herbal aroma to the broth. You can adjust the amount of each spice to your taste preference, but aim for a balance of flavors. 3. Add vegetables and aromatics While lentils are the star ingredient in Armenian lentil soup, adding vegetables and aromatics can elevate its flavor and nutritional value. Some traditional options include onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and tomatoes. Sauté the vegetables and aromatics in olive oil to release their flavors and soften them before adding the lentils and broth. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water to add more richness and depth of flavor. 4. Finish with a tangy kick Armenian lentil soup typically includes a tangy and sour element, such as lemon juice or vinegar. This acidity helps cut through the richness of the soup and gives it a zesty finish. You can add lemon juice or red wine vinegar towards the end of cooking or offer it on the side for diners to add to their liking. Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and freshness. 5. Customize the soup to your taste While Armenian lentil soup has a traditional recipe, you can always make adjustments to cater to your taste preference or dietary restrictions. Here are some ideas to try: - Substitute vegetable broth with chicken or beef broth for a meatier flavor. - Replace the mint with dill, parsley, or basil for a different herbaceous note. - Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream to add creaminess and tanginess. Use these tips as a starting point to make a delicious and satisfying Armenian lentil soup. With its rich flavor and nourishing ingredients, it's no wonder why this soup is a staple in Armenian cuisine.

Conclusion

Armenian lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is simple to make with just a few basic ingredients. Choosing the right lentils, using traditional Armenian herbs and spices, adding vegetables and aromatics, finishing with a tangy kick, and customizing to your taste are some of the valuable tips to make the perfect lentil soup. Whether you follow a traditional recipe or put your spin on it, Armenian lentil soup is a tasty and satisfying meal that you will enjoy again and again.

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