Soup · Dinner · Middle Eastern ·

Zesty Armenian Lentil Soup with Sumac and Fresh Herbs

This warm and comforting Armenian soup is packed with spices and fresh herbs, offering a delightful balance of zesty flavors sure to enhance your meal.

4.8(976 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Zesty Armenian Lentil Soup with Sumac and Fresh Herbs — Soup served and photographed from above
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
6

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Lentils

  1. 1

    Rinse the Lentils

    Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.

  2. 2

    Drain the Lentils

    Drain and set aside.

Building the Soup Base

  1. 1

    Sauté Vegetables

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Add Aromatics

    Add the onions, garlic, and carrots, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Incorporate Spices and Tomato Paste

    Stir in the spices and tomato paste, cooking until the tomato paste darkens slightly.

    Tip: Do not let the garlic burn, as it will add bitterness to the soup. Use a wooden spoon to ensure the spices don't stick to the pot.

How to Make Zesty Armenian Lentil Soup with Sumac and Fresh Herbs

Total time: 2 h · Yields 6 servings

  1. 1

    Simmer the Soup

    Add lentils and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

  2. 2

    Adjust Flavors

    Stir in sumac, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Finish Cooking

    Let the soup simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

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

    Can I freeze this soup?

    Yes, the soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

    What can I use instead of sumac?

    Lemon zest can be a good substitute if sumac is unavailable.

    Can I make this soup ahead of time?

    Absolutely, it can be made a day ahead. The flavors deepen overnight.

    Is there a gluten-free option?

    This soup is naturally gluten-free, but ensure any commercial broths used are certified gluten-free.

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