How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead, but add the spinach when reheating for freshness.

What can I substitute for green lentils?

Brown lentils or red lentils can be used, but keep in mind cooking times may vary.

How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan; just ensure that all ingredients are plant-based and check the vegetable broth labeling.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Lebanese Lentil and Spinach Soup with Pita Chips

Name: Lebanese Lentil and Spinach Soup with Pita Chips
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion; 3 cloves garlic; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 8 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach; Salt and black pepper; 2 whole wheat pita breads; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sumac; Salt

Hearty and Nutritious Middle Eastern Delight

This comforting lentil and spinach soup brings the flavors of Lebanon to your table, paired perfectly with crispy pita chips for a delicious, wholesome meal.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lentil and Spinach Soup

1 cup green lentils

rinsed and drained

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion

finely chopped

3 cloves garlic

minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric

8 cups vegetable broth

2 cups fresh spinach

washed and roughly chopped

Salt and black pepper

to taste

For the Pita Chips

2 whole wheat pita breads

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sumac

Salt

to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Lentil and Spinach Soup

Heat oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté aromatics

Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.

Add spices

Stir in cumin, coriander, and turmeric until fragrant.

Cook lentils

Add lentils and vegetable broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.

Ensure lentils are fully cooked before adding spinach.

Finish and season

Stir in chopped spinach, cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Blending a portion of the soup gives it a creamier texture.

Preparing the Pita Chips

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut pita

Cut pita bread into small triangles and place them on a baking sheet.

Season

Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sumac and salt.

Bake chips

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.

Cooking Process

Boiling the Lentils

Boil the lentils until they are bite-tender.

Simmering the Soup

Allow soup to simmer gently for flavor development.

Baking the Pita Chips

Bake until chips are crunchy and golden.

Plating & Serving