This is a unique and tasty version of a traditional Lebanese lentil soup. Serve with some warm pita bread for a thoroughly filling and nutritious meal!
INGREDIENTS (for 6 servings):
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
- 6 cups water
- 1 small onion, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 sprigs Italian flat leaf parsley
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
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- 4 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups dried brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 pounds Swiss chard - rinsed, stems removed and cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- salt to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
PREPARATION:
In a large saucepan, combine the chicken broth, 6 cups of water, 1 small onion, bay leaf, parsley and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 1/2 hours. Strain, and reserve 4 cups of the broth for the recipe. Reserve the remaining broth for other uses.
Pour the 4 cups of broth into a large soup pot, and add 4 cups of water to it. Stir in lentils, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 1 hour.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the large onion, and cook until transparent, stirring frequently. Add the garlic, and cook for just a minute, until fragrant. Place the chard in the pan, and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. The smells here are delicious!
Transfer the chard and onion mixture to the pot with the lentils. Stir in the cilantro and lemon juice. Season with salt and additional lemon if desired. Simmer covered for an additional 15 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges.