Lebanese Lentil and Swiss Chard Soup (Adas Bi Hamod)
This traditional Lebanese Lentil and Swiss Chard Soup combines wholesome lentils, fresh Swiss chard, and a burst of lemony goodness. Its rich, savory flavors make it a go-to comfort soup you have to try!
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 bunches Swiss chard
- 1 (12 ounces) bag brown lentils
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch cilantro chopped
- 5 garlic cloves
- 2 medium onions cubed
- 3 lemon juice of
- 1½ teaspoons cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt to taste
Instructions
- Place 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the cubed onions for 3 minutes until they turn translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Add the chopped cilantro and minced garlic, stirring for 2 minutes to enhance their aroma. Set this mixture aside.
- Wash the lentils thoroughly in a strainer to remove any impurities. Fill a 6-quart pot three-quarters full with water and bring it to a boil. Add the rinsed lentils and partially cook them to tenderize without overcooking.
- Wash the Swiss chard thoroughly to remove grit. Chop the leaves and stems finely for even cooking.
- Once the lentils are partially cooked, add the chopped Swiss chard to the boiling pot, and stir to incorporate.
- Add the sautéed onion, garlic, and cilantro mixture. Then, add the cumin, black pepper, lemon juice, and salt.
- Lower the heat to medium and allow the soup to simmer gently for 30 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Taste the soup and adjust with more salt or lemon juice as needed.
Notes
- Perfectly Cooked Lentils: To achieve tender lentils without turning them mushy, rinse thoroughly and avoid overboiling. Simmer gently until just soft but still holding their shape.
- Swiss Chard Prep: Use both stems and leaves of Swiss chard for balanced textures. Chop the stems finely to ensure they cook evenly. To preserve their vibrant color, chop them finely and add as the lentils soften.
- Adjust the Lemon: Add lemon juice gradually and taste as you go. For a tangier soup, use more lemon.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and store in portions for quick, healthy dinners throughout the week.
- Boost the Flavor: Sauté garlic, onions, and cilantro until aromatic before adding them to the soup for an enhanced depth of flavor. This step builds a rich base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- Control the Consistency: Adjust the water level to achieve your desired thickness. For a heartier soup, use less water; for a lighter version, add a little extra.
Nutrition
Calories: 139kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 1380mg | Potassium: 537mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 6226IU | Vitamin C: 63mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 3mg