Halal Healthy Red Lentil Soup (One-Pot, Middle Eastern-Inspired)

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 large carrot or potato, diced (extra)
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth (halal-certified)
• Juice of 1 lemon, plus wedges for serving
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

1. 1Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 min until softened.
2. 2Add garlic, tomato paste, cumin, turmeric, and chili flakes; cook 1-2 min until fragrant.
3. 3Stir in lentils, extra veggies, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer 25-30 min until lentils break down.
4. 4Blend partially with immersion blender for creaminess (optional). Stir in lemon juice, season, and garnish. Serve hot.

Nutrition values are estimates.