Indulge in the rich flavors of Jordan with our signature Lentil Soup, a beloved dish that warms the soul and delights the senses. Crafted from tender red lentils, simmered to perfection with aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of traditional spices, every spoonful brings a taste of Jordanian hospitality to your table. Savor the hearty goodness and let the fragrant aroma transport you to the bustling markets and vibrant kitchens of Jordan. Perfect for any occasion, this wholesome soup is a comforting embrace in every bowl.

Ingredients:

 - 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

 - 1 onion, finely chopped

 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

 - 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

 - 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

 - Salt and black pepper to taste

 - Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

 - Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3- Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute to toast the spices, stirring constantly.

4- Add rinsed and drained lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.

6- Once the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.

7- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

8- Serve the Jordanian Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with warm bread or pita on the side.

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a taste of Jordanian comfort food. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values :

Here's the nutritional breakdown and benefits for the ingredients in your lentil soup:

For the Lentil Soup:

Red or Brown Lentils (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 230

  - Fat: 0.8 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 40 grams

  - Protein: 18 grams

Benefits: High in protein and fiber, supports digestive health, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and provides essential vitamins and minerals like folate and iron.

Onion (1, finely chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 45

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 11 grams

  - Protein: 1 gram

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 15

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

  - Protein: 0.6 grams

Benefits: Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, boosts the immune system, and supports cardiovascular health.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 120

  - Fat: 14 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Supports heart health and adds richness.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8

  - Fat: 0.4 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5 grams

  - Protein: 0.4 grams

Benefits: Contains antioxidants, aids digestion, and may reduce inflammation.

Ground Coriander (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 3

  - Fat: 0.1 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0.7 grams

  - Protein: 0.1 grams

Benefits: Provides antioxidants, supports digestion, and adds a mild citrus flavor.

Ground Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8

  - Fat: 0.2 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1.4 grams

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional)

  - Calories: Approximately 6

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0.3 grams

Benefits: Adds heat and may boost metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.

Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups):

Vegetable Broth:

   - Calories: Approximately 60

   - Fat: 0 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 10 grams

   - Protein: 2 grams

Benefits:Adds rich flavor, enhances dishes, and provides a low-calorie, plant-based alternative.

Chicken Broth:

   - Calories: Approximately 80

   - Fat: 2 grams

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 7 grams

Benefits: Adds flavor and nutrients. Chicken broth adds protein, while vegetable broth is generally lower in calories and fat.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Salt helps maintain fluid balance, while pepper adds additional flavor and may have antioxidant properties.

Fresh Lemon Wedges (for serving):

  - Calories: Approximately 4 (for 1 wedge)

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds vitamin C and a tangy flavor, supports immune function.

Chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish):

  - Calories: Approximately 5 (for 1/4 cup)

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 1 gram

  - Protein: 0.5 grams

Benefits: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, and adds freshness and flavor.

Nutritional values may vary slightly based on factors such as brand, cooking methods, and specific varieties of ingredients used.