Simple & Savory Armenian Lentil Soup Recipe – Your Healthy Meal In No Time

Embark on a delightful culinary journey to the heart of Armenia with our stunning Armenian Lentil Soup. This centuries-old recipe has been passed down to generations, surviving the test of time due to its harmonious blend of healthy ingredients and refreshing flavours.

A love letter to traditional Armenian cuisine, this lentil soup takes the humble lentil and transforms it into a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Enhanced with a vibrant medley of fresh herbs and earthy spices, this soup is a testament to Armenia’s rich culinary heritage. 

Laden with protein-packed lentils, aromatic onions, fresh tomatoes, and a splash of lemon juice, this bowlful of comfort speaks directly to the soul. 

Whether it’s a chilly winter’s night or a breezy summer day, this timeless Armenian Lentil Soup recipe promises to bring warmth and fulfilment to your table.

It’s more than just a soup – it’s a treasured story of tradition and heart-warming hospitality poured into a bowl.

What Is Armenian Lentil Soup?

Armenian Lentil Soup, called Vospov About, is a popular dish in Armenian cuisine. It’s hearty, nutritious, and known for its simplicity and rich flavour.

It mainly consists of lentils simmered with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and turmeric. 

Carrots and bell peppers can be added. Served with bread and garnished with herbs, this soup is loved by Armenians and appreciated by vegetarians worldwide.

Each family has its own variation, creating a diverse range of flavours for this seemingly simple dish.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

You can modify the Armenian Lentil Soup recipe to fit various dietary needs:

• Keto: To make this recipe Keto-friendly, you could use a blend of low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, and bell peppers. Add more fats, like olive oil or butter, to meet the high-fat requirement of a Keto diet.
• Paleo: Lentils are technically legumes and aren’t typically included in a strict Paleo diet, so you could replace them with other vegetables or meat. 
• Gluten-free: The basic Armenian Lentil Soup recipe is already gluten-free. However, always check the labels of store-bought broths and spices.
• Whole30: To make this Whole30 compliant, you’ll need to replace the rice or bulgur wheat with a compliant source of carbs like sweet potatoes or other root vegetables. 

Recipe Directions

• Gather and prepare ingredients: dice onions, rinse lentils, chop parsley, zest/juice lemon, and measure spices.
• Heat 1-1/2 tbsp olive oil in a Dutch oven or stockpot.
• Sauté onions for 2-3 mins until translucent, stirring occasionally.
• Add lentils, bulgur/rice, thyme, and Aleppo pepper. Sauté for 30 secs to coat in oil and meld flavours.
• Pour in 10 cups water/broth, reduce heat to low.
• Cook uncovered for 30 mins, stirring occasionally to encourage lentils to soften.
• Season with lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
• Optional: Use immersion blender for smoother consistency.
• Ladle into bowls, garnish generously with chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Enhance the soup’s heartiness by adding cooked chicken, beef, or lamb. 
• Include extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for flavour and nutrition. 
• Experiment with spices such as coriander, cinnamon, or cayenne.

Add-Ons

• Increase texture and protein by incorporating legumes like chickpeas or kidney beans.
• Substitute rice or bulgur wheat with grains like quinoa or farro. 
• Explore different herbs like dill, cilantro, or mint for varied flavours.

Toppings

• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle tahini for tangy creaminess. 
• Toasted almonds or pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch. 
• Infuse the soup with flavour using herb oils like basil or rosemary. 
• Sprinkle feta or crumbled cheese for a salty balance.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Sauté ingredients, transfer to a slow cooker with broth/water.
• Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until lentils are soft and flavours melded.
• Stir in lemon juice, zest, season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Instant Pot

• Sauté ingredients using Instant Pot’s sauté function.
• Add broth/water, secure lid, set to Manual High Pressure for 15 mins.
• Natural release for 10 mins, then quick release remaining pressure.
• Stir in lemon juice, zest, season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use store-bought broth in your Armenian Lentil Soup. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting store-bought broth:

• Sodium Content: Many store-bought broths contain high levels of sodium. Look for low-sodium options so you can better control the saltiness of your soup.
• Quality: Higher quality broths often have a richer, more authentic flavour. They may be a bit more expensive, but the flavour payoff can be worth it.
• Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for any potential allergens or ingredients you might want to avoid. Some broths may contain additives or preservatives.21

How To Serve?

• Tableware: Serve in deep, wide bowls or rustic earthenware for visual appeal and ease of eating.
• Garnish: Don’t skimp on parsley; it adds colour and flavour. Consider yogurt swirls or extra pepper for aesthetics.
• Bread: Accompany with warm, crusty bread for dipping and texture.
• Table Setup: Use placemats, cloth napkins, and good soup spoons for an elevated dining experience.
• Temperature: Serve hot and warm bowls beforehand to maintain soup temperature.

Perfect Side Dishes

The Armenian Lentil Soup is a hearty, flavourful dish that can be enjoyed as a meal on its own. However, if you’d like to create a more elaborate meal, here are a few side dishes that would complement it nicely:

• Fresh Bread: Crusty bread or Armenian flatbread complements the soup’s flavours and adds texture.
• Salad: A simple green or tomato-cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast.
• Grilled/Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant add smoky flavours.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma): Authentic and flavourful, they provide variety in taste and texture.
• Cheese and Olives: Mediterranean cheeses, olives, and hummus complete the meal, harmonizing with the soup’s flavours.

Storage And Make Ahead

Here are some simple storage and make ahead tips:

• Cool Quickly: After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature swiftly by placing the pot in a sink filled with ice water, stirring occasionally.
• Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, Armenian Lentil Soup can last for 3-5 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well due to its ingredients and lack of dairy. Freeze in portioned, freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep Ingredients: Dice your vegetables and gather your spices ahead of time. You can store prepped vegetables in the refrigerator to save on cooking time.
• Cook Lentils: Lentils can be cooked and stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding to the soup, especially if you prefer them to maintain a firmer texture.
• Assemble and Simmer: Combine your prepped ingredients and bring the soup to a simmer to meld the flavors. If you’re short on time, consider using a slow cooker to cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Adjust Seasonings: Seasonings may mellow during storage. Taste and adjust the seasonings after reheating, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Portion for Convenience: If making the soup primarily for future meals, consider portioning it into individual servings before freezing. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Armenian Lentil Soup is incredibly versatile, and there are many delicious ways to use it. Here are a few ideas:

• Repurpose Into Another Dish: You can add leftover soup to a stew for added thickness and flavor. Or, you can serve it over cooked grains such as quinoa, rice, or bulgur.
• Make a Dip: Blend the soup until smooth and serve it as a dip for vegetables or chips. You may want to adjust the seasoning or add some herbs to enhance the flavor.
• Create a Sauce: You could also blend the soup and use it as a sauce for pasta or grains if it’s too thick, thin it with some broth or water.
• Use in a Casserole: Add some protein like cooked chicken, vegetables, and a grain like rice or pasta, then bake until hot and bubbly.
• Freeze for Later: If you can’t immediately use the leftovers, simply freeze them. Frozen soup can be reheated for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

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