Ezogelin Çorbası

 Homemade Ezogelin Çorbası – A Hearty Turkish Lentil Soup

A steaming bowl of Ezogelin Çorbası, a rich Turkish lentil soup, garnished with dried mint and a drizzle of olive oil, served with a fresh lemon wedge on a rustic wooden table


Ezogelin Çorbası is a beloved Turkish soup known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Made with red lentils, rice, bulgur, and fragrant spices, this soup is perfect for chilly days or as a nourishing appetizer. Let’s dive into this classic Turkish recipe and learn how to make it at home!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • ¼ cup rice, rinsed
  • ¼ cup fine bulgur
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper paste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried mint
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Juice of ½ lemon (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics
    In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  2. Add the Pastes and Spices
    Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper paste (if using). Cook for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavors. Then, add paprika, dried mint, cumin, black pepper, and chili flakes. Mix well.

  3. Cook the Lentils and Grains
    Add the rinsed red lentils, rice, and bulgur to the pot. Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and grains are soft.

  4. Blend for a Creamy Texture (Optional)
    If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to slightly blend the soup while keeping some texture. If you like it chunky, leave it as is.

  5. Final Seasoning
    Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or spices if needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.

  6. Serve and Enjoy!
    Ladle the soup into bowls and squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top for added zest. Garnish with extra dried mint or chili flakes if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or traditional Turkish pide.

Tips for the Perfect Ezogelin Çorbası:

  • For a richer flavor, you can use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth.
  • If you don’t have bulgur, you can substitute it with more rice, though bulgur adds a distinct nutty taste.
  • Dried mint is key to authentic Ezogelin Çorbası flavor, so don’t skip it!
  • This soup thickens as it sits, so you may need to add a little water when reheating.

Ezogelin Çorbası is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to your meal rotation. Try this recipe and bring a taste of Turkey to your kitchen. Enjoy!

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