Lentil and Sour Grape Soup – How to Prepare Lentil and Sour Grape Soup

Lentil and Sour Grape Soup – How to Prepare Lentil and Sour Grape Soup

Lentil and Sour Grape Soup is a favorite dish during the winter season because it is rich in lentils, a legume packed with iron that helps reduce feelings of nausea, zinc, antioxidants, and high amounts of soluble fiber. This fiber lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and raises good cholesterol (HDL), thus reducing the risk of blood clots and strokes, and improving heart and artery health.

Preparing this soup takes about an hour and is enough to serve five people.

Main Ingredients for Lentil and Sour Grape Soup:

 

• 1 tablespoon crushed cumin
• 9 cloves of mashed garlic (add more or less according to taste)
• 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth (your choice)
• 150g olive oil
• ½ cup sour grape juice (hassram)
• 150g red onion, finely chopped
• 2 hot red chili peppers (optional)
• 450g red lentils
• Toasted Arabic bread (as desired for garnish)

How to Prepare Lentil and Sour Grape Soup:

1. Prepare the Lentils:
   Wash the lentils several times with water to remove any impurities. Drain them in a sieve and set aside.

2. Cook the Onions:
   Heat half of the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and a pinch of salt (according to taste). Sauté the onions until they become golden.

3. Add Spices and Lentils:
   Add half of the cumin to the sautéed onions, followed by the lentils. Stir for a few moments, then add the broth. You can also add the hot red chili peppers at this point, removing the seeds and veins to avoid chunks in the soup.

4. Cook the Lentils:
   Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer until the lentils are fully cooked, as lentils take some time to become tender and ready to eat.

5. Finish the Soup:
   Once the lentils are completely cooked, turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Add the remaining cumin and pour in the sour grape juice to achieve the desired level of acidity.

6. Prepare the Garlic Topping:
   In a small pan, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the mashed garlic until it turns golden.

7. Serve:
   Pour the soup into serving bowls, garnish with the garlic and olive oil mixture on top, and serve with toasted Arabic bread.

Now you’re ready for a warm, cozy winter with this delicious Lentil and Sour Grape Soup! Enjoy!