This hearty and flavorful Lebanese lentil soup is a cherished family recipe passed down from my husband’s Armenian-Lebanese family. Known as Shorbat Adas, this simple soup is made with a handful of ingredients like red lentils, warm spices, and fresh lemon juice. It's the perfect soup for those looking for a healthy soup that's hearty, nutritious, and packed with plant-based protein. Passed down from my husband’s Lebanese family, this dish is a staple in many Lebanese restaurants and homes alike. Whether you serve it with pita bread, white rice, or a slice of crusty bread, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
6cupschicken broth or low-sodium vegetable broth for a vegan option
2cupswater
Juice of 3 lemons
3tbspfresh parsley
For the Crispy Pita Topping
1thin medium pita separated
1/4tspsalt
1tspolive oil
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Instructions
Prepare the Crispy Pita Chips
Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Separate the pita bread pocket. Roll into a log and slice into medium strips. Add 1 tsp olive oil and ¼ tsp salt.
Air fry for 3-4 minutes or spread evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn.
Sauté the Base
In a large pot or dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for a couple of minutes until softened.
Cook the Lentils
Add the red lentils and garlic.
Add the chopped potatoes, and chopped carrots to the pot. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, cooking for another couple of minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable stock) and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender or immersion hand blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. (For a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup.)
Stir in the juice of 3 lemons and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed.
Serve and Garnish
Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with olive oil, crispy pita chips and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. I also sometimes top it with chili garlic and it is DELISH!