Instructions

Step 1

Soak and Cook Chickpeas

Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight to soften them. Once soaked, drain the chickpeas and transfer them to a pot filled with water.

Bring the water to a boil and cook the chickpeas until they are tender, which may take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the chickpeas' age.

Step 2

Prepare the Soup Base

To the pot with cooked chickpeas, add the bulgur and lentils. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, typically about 1 liter (4 cups) of water.

Bring the combination to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the bulgur and lentils are cooked through, around 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3

Blend the Soup

Once the grains and legumes are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only partially.

Add your chosen spices, including smoked paprika, Turkish spice blend, cumin, and pepper. Blend again briefly to mix everything well.

Step 4

Final Cooking and Serve

Return the pureed soup to the stove and bring it back to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

If you're using chicken breast, you can roast it separately, seasoning it to your liking, and then slice it for serving.

Step 5

Serve and Enjoy

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top with slices of roasted chicken if desired, drizzle with a couple of drops of olive oil, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Now, your delicious Turkish soup is ready to be enjoyed! Bon appétit!

Servings

Serving this delicious Turkish soup is not just about ladling it into bowls; it's about the experience! 🥣 Garnish each bowl with a few drops of olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and if you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for that pop of color! 🌿 Next, pair this warm delight with some crusty bread or pita on the side for dipping, making every bite a little adventure! 🍞

Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this soup will impress your guests and feed your soul. Don’t forget to serve it with extra lemon wedges on the side—who doesn’t love a zesty kick? 🍋

Enjoy this delightful moment with friends or family, perhaps while sharing travel tales or future plans. Every spoonful brings warmth not just to your bodies, but also to your hearts. ❤️

Equipment

3.5L Pot

This is essential for simmering your soup evenly. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

Variations

Looking for some twists? No problem! 🌱 For a gluten-free twist, simply replace bulgur with quinoa or rice. They cook similarly and will absorb that rich flavor perfectly! Plus, take note, quinoa packs a protein punch!

Want to make this soup vegan? Absolutely! Just skip the chicken and opt for vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more veggies like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color. 🥬For vegan enthusiasts: do try adding a hint of coconut milk at the end for a creamy finish! 🥥

Faq

  • Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

    Yes, you can! Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding them to the pot.

  • How long does this soup last in the fridge?

    This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving!

  • How can I make it spicier?

    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes when blending the soup to give it a kick!

  • Can I make this soup ahead of time?

    Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just reheat before serving!

  • What's the best way to serve leftovers?

    Consider using the leftovers as a base for a grain bowl! Add cooked grains, more veggies, or even a fried egg on top!

  • Can I freeze this soup?

    Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Nutrition facts

Delicious Turkish Soup Recipe You'll Love
Recipe Yield:6 servings
Calories:Approximate calorie range per serving.
Calories (Min - Max):250 - 350
Total Fat:8g
Saturated Fat:1g
Protein:16g
Total Carbohydrate:40g
Total Sugars:3g