A comforting and authentic Bulgarian lentil soup, this recipe combines the hearty goodness of lentils and aromatic vegetables. Light yet satisfying, this traditional dish captures the essence of Bulgarian home cooking.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 200 grams of dry red lentils
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1-2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, whole
- 1/2 fresh paprika (red or yellow), chopped
- 3 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 2 liters of vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Rinse the Lentils
Begin by rinsing the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set them aside to drain.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Lentils
Heat the sunflower or olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, paprika, garlic cloves, and lentils to the pot. Stir well, allowing the vegetables and lentils to cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Once the lentils are fully cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Boost the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of paprika during the simmering process for a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency if the soup becomes too thick.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Bread: Serve with crusty Bulgarian bread (квасен хляб) to soak up the soup.
- Pickled Vegetables: Add a side of pickled vegetables (туршия) for a tangy contrast to the soup’s earthy flavors.
Wine Pairing
We don’t usually have wine with soups in Bulgaria.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 8g
Sodium: 650 mg
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
About the Bulgarian Clear Lentil Soup
Bulgarian Clear Lentil Soup is a classic, comforting dish in almost every household. This simple yet nourishing soup is traditionally served as a starter or light main course, offering the perfect balance of flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Cultural Context
Lentils have been a staple in Bulgarian cuisine for centuries, often prepared in soups like супа леща, which translates to lentil soup. The combination of lentils with fresh vegetables like carrots, paprika, and garlic reflects the rustic, farm-to-table nature of Bulgarian cooking. This dish is trendy during the colder months when warm, hearty soups are most appreciated in Bulgarian homes.
