Red Lentils 500gr

RED LENTILS   .....also known as Egyptian lentils

Lentils have been part of the human diet since the Neolithic era and have been one of the first domesticated crops in the Near East. Archaeological evidence shows that they were consumed 9,500 to 13,000 years ago. In our modern times, Turkey has the largest production percentage of red lentils globally (over 80%).

One of their various colors is red-orange, the well-known red lentils, which contain a lower fiber concentration than green lentils (11% instead of 31%) and due to their size, they boil faster (approximately 15 minutes). They are more digestible especially for individuals with sensitive intestines.

With around 30% of their calories from proteins, lentils have the third highest protein level by weight of any legume or nut, after soybeans and hemp. The proteins include the essential amino acids isoleucine and lysine, and lentils are a cheap source of essential proteins in many parts of the world with a large number of vegetarians. Lentils also contain dietary fibers, folic acid, vitamin B1, and minerals. They are also a very good source of iron and contain over half of an individual's daily allowable iron intake in one cup serving.

Recipe for red lentil soup with lemon

INGREDIENTS3 tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion coarsely chopped.2 cloves of garlic crushed.1 tablespoon tomato paste.1 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan salt. 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepperA pinch of chilli powder or cayenne pepper 6 cups vegetable broth 1 cup red lentils 1 large carrot cubed.Juice from 1 - 1 1/2 lemons.

INSTRUCTIONSIn a pot, put the oil to heat over high heat and add the onion and garlic. Sauté until browned (about 4 minutes). Add cumin, salt, pepper, chili powder (or cayenne pepper), and tomato paste and sauté for about 2 more minutes. Add the broth, lentils, and carrots. Once it boils, partially cover the pot, lower the heat, and let it simmer for about half an hour or until the lentils are soft. Blend half the soup using a blender or immersion blender and return it to the pot For serving, you can drizzle additional oil and/or chili powder on top or alternatively milk cream.