Hello, lovely readers! Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that will transport you straight to the heart of the Middle East right from your cozy kitchen. We’re diving into a bowl of Creamy Tahini and Lentil Soup, served with warm pita bread. It’s one of those dishes that brings comfort on a chilly evening and fills your home with the most inviting aromas.
Lentils have long been a staple in my pantry because they’re not just versatile but also packed with protein, making them an excellent base for a hearty meal. Paired with tahini, which adds a nutty creaminess, this soup is truly a match made in culinary heaven. Plus, it’s a dish that’s not just for vegetarians—everyone can appreciate its rich, earthy flavors.
I often find myself turning to this recipe after a hectic day, as the process of making it is rather soothing. There’s something so therapeutic about chopping onions and garlic, listening to them sizzle softly in olive oil, and then watching the spices bloom with their vivid colors and tantalizing scents. Who knew cumin and turmeric could brighten both a dish and your day?
Another thing I love about this soup is the flexibility with garnishes. Fresh parsley brings a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness perfectly, but you could also add a dollop of natural yogurt for an extra creamy touch or a sprinkle of chili flakes if, like me, you enjoy a bit of heat.
And let’s not forget the pita bread! Warmed until soft and slightly crisp around the edges, it’s perfect for scooping up every last drop of this delicious soup. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to leave a single spoonful behind.
This recipe has become a staple in our household, not only for its simplicity and flavor but also because it fosters moments of connection around the dinner table. There’s something magical about sharing food that’s been cooked with love and care, especially when it’s inspired by such a rich and fascinating culinary tradition.
I hope this dish brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to ours. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner with friends, or simply warming up your soul on a quiet evening alone, this Creamy Tahini and Lentil Soup is sure to please.
Do let me know in the comments if you give it a try, and feel free to share any variations you might experiment with. Cooking is all about making a dish your own, after all! Happy cooking, everyone!
Ingredients
– 200g dried green or brown lentils
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1.2 liters vegetable stock
– 100g tahini
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– 4 whole wheat pita breads
Method
1. **Prepare the Lentils**: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground turmeric, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. **Cook the Lentils**: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the vegetable stock. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. **Blend and Season**: Once the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until creamy and smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
5. **Add Tahini and Lemon Juice**: Stir in the tahini and lemon juice, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. **Heat Through**: Allow the soup to heat through on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. **Prepare the Pita Bread**: While the soup is heating, warm the pita bread. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the pita bread on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warm.
8. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and serve alongside warm pita bread. Enjoy!
