Fennel Shorbat – A Middle Eastern Lentil Soup

Fennel Shorbat – A Nourishing Middle Eastern Lentil Soup

When it comes to simple, soul-warming meals that heal from the inside out, nothing beats a traditional lentil soup — especially one infused with the bold, earthy spices of the Middle East.

Fennel Shorbat (a variation of the beloved Shorbat Adas) is more than just a comforting bowl of soup — it’s a deeply nourishing recipe that supports digestion, reduces inflammation, and helps rebalance the body during seasonal transitions or detox protocols.

It’s also incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or batch-prepping your weekly meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, washed

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, cut into small cubes

• 1 celery stalk, cut into small cubes

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 liter chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Sauté the aromatics
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant.

2. Build the flavor
   Add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Spice it up
   Add cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir well to coat the veggies and release the spices’ aroma.

4. Simmer to perfection
   Add the red lentils and broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.

5. Blend or leave rustic
   You can use an immersion blender for a smooth texture, or leave it chunky for a heartier soup.

6. Finish and serve
   Stir in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Digestive Support – Red lentils and warming spices like cumin and turmeric help reduce bloating and support gut health.

• Plant-Based Protein – A fantastic source of fiber and protein, especially if you’re following a detox or using the Dr. Cabral Foundational Protocol.

• Versatile & Freezer-Friendly – Keeps well in the fridge for 4–5 days and freezes beautifully.

This soup makes a perfect addition to your weekly reset meals or post-detox nourishment. It’s gentle, grounding, and full of flavor — a true staple for every health coach’s kitchen!