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.

Zesty Armenian Lentil Soup with Sumac and Fresh Herbs

Name: Zesty Armenian Lentil Soup with Sumac and Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion; 2 cloves garlic; 2 carrots; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon sumac; Salt and black pepper; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley leaves; Fresh mint leaves

A Hearty, Flavorful Soup with Middle Eastern Aromas

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.

1 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1 cup lentils

rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion

finely diced

2 cloves garlic

minced

2 carrots

diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

8 cups vegetable or chicken broth

For the Flavor Enhancements

1 tablespoon sumac

Salt and black pepper

to taste

2 tablespoons tomato paste

Juice of 1 lemon

For the Garnish

Fresh parsley leaves

chopped

Fresh mint leaves

chopped

Preparation

Preparing the Lentils

Rinse the Lentils

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

Drain the Lentils

Drain and set aside.

Building the Soup Base

Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add Aromatics

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

Incorporate Spices and Tomato Paste

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

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.

Cooking Process

Simmer the Soup

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

Adjust Flavors

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

Finish Cooking

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

Plating & Serving