Name: Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Armenian
Ingredients: 1 cup dried apricots, roughly chopped (or 2 large ripe apricots, pitted and roughly chopped, plus more to serve); 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped; 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved (about 14 tomatoes); 2 medium garlic cloves, crushed; 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more to serve; 5 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought) or vegetable broth, plus more if needed; 2 tablespoons water; 1 lemon, juiced (about 1/4 cup); 2 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained; Kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe that just warms you up from the inside out. Combining the natural sweetness of apricots with the hearty earthiness of red lentils creates a perfect balance of flavors, while the blend of spices and fresh herbs dance beautifully on your palate. This soup not only nourishes your body but also tells a story of Armenian tradition with every spoonful, making it a cherished dish you’ll want to return to again and again.

A light blue bowl filled with creamy bright orange soup is placed on a white plate, both sitting on a white marbled surface. The soup has a smooth texture with small pieces of diced orange vegetables piled in the center. Fresh green herb leaves and small black pepper flakes are sprinkled on top of the soup, adding a contrasting color and visual interest. A silver spoon rests on the plate beside the bowl, and a white cloth with blue and yellow stripes is partly visible to the right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From the soft sweetness of apricots to the comforting heartiness of lentils, let’s explore what you’ll need to make this soul-satisfying Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe.

Dried apricots: Provide natural sweetness and a tender, juicy texture after soaking.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables evenly.
Small yellow onion: Offers a mild, savory base that softens and sweetens as it cooks.
Carrots: Bring a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange hue.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the soup.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and spice.
Grape tomatoes: Deliver bursts of tangy freshness and a lovely red color.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and deepens the soup’s color.
Garlic cloves: Provide a fragrant, savory punch.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone characteristic of Armenian cuisine.
Sweet paprika: Lends subtle smoky notes and a rich red tint.
Water: Helps to loosen the sautéed vegetables and spices.
Chicken stock or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base that brings everything together.
Red lentils: Cook down to creamy perfection, giving the soup its hearty body.
Lemon juice: Brightens the finished soup with a fresh, zesty kick.
Fresh flat-leaf parsley: Garnishes with a burst of herbal freshness to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Apricots

Begin by soaking the dried apricots in warm water to plump them up and bring out their juiciness. This step is key for adding that luscious apricot flavor. If you’re lucky enough to have fresh apricots, feel free to skip this soaking—they’re ready to go as is!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, heat extra virgin olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Once shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion and carrots with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them gently until they soften and turn tender, releasing a subtle sweetness that forms the heart of the soup’s flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Now it’s time to build that vibrant flavor base by adding juicy grape tomatoes, rich tomato paste, crushed garlic, cumin, sweet paprika, and a splash of water. Cook everything together for about a minute, letting the spices bloom and the tomatoes start to melt into the mix.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Stir in the flavorful chicken or vegetable stock along with the rinsed red lentils. Season again with salt and pepper, then bring the whole pot to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and partially cover it, letting the soup simmer so the lentils soften and begin to break down. This slow simmer is what transforms the ingredients into a creamy, velvety delight. If the soup gets too thick, add a splash more stock or water to reach your perfect consistency.

Step 5: Purée the Soup

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the drained apricots and fresh lemon juice. Now comes the fun part—using an immersion blender, blend the soup until you reach your desired texture. Whether you prefer it silky smooth or with some delightful chunkiness, this step lets you tailor the soup exactly to your liking. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Ladle your warm Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe into bowls and top each with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For an extra treat, scatter some additional chopped apricots on top for bursts of sweet, fruity contrast. This final touch not only looks inviting but adds that iconic Armenian flair.

How to Serve Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this soup beautifully. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil brings a luxurious mouthfeel, while fresh flat-leaf parsley adds a bright herbal note and a pop of green. If you love a bit more texture, toss on some chopped fresh or dried apricots for sweet surprise bites.

Side Dishes

Pairing this soup with lightly toasted crusty bread or warm pita rounds makes for a satisfying, complete meal. A crisp cucumber and tomato salad on the side complements the soup’s warmth with fresh crunch and acidity. For something heartier, serve alongside a simple grilled chicken or a rice pilaf.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties or a festive family meal, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of yogurt or labneh on top to add creaminess and tang. Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch. You could also ladle the soup into small cups or shot glasses for charming appetizer portions that showcase this delicious Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe in style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it tightly covered in an airtight container to preserve those vibrant flavors. Before serving leftovers, stir well as the lentils tend to settle at the bottom.

Freezing

Want to stash some for later? Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top, as it may expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often to ensure even warming. If the soup thickens too much after chilling or freezing, simply add a splash of water or stock to loosen it up. Finish by giving it a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to refresh all those lovely flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap the chicken stock for a rich vegetable broth, and you’ll maintain all the comforting flavors without compromise.

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?

Yes, fresh apricots are wonderful in this recipe and don’t need soaking. Their natural juiciness adds a fresh brightness that’s a little different but equally delicious.

Is this soup spicy?

Not really. The spices like cumin and paprika are warm and earthy, not hot. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat.

How thick should the soup be?

This is up to your personal preference! The soup can be thicker like a stew or more brothy. Adding stock or water during cooking helps you adjust the consistency easily.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for guests?

Definitely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it completely, then reheat gently before serving for a stress-free meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, the Armenian Apricot Red Lentil Soup Recipe is where your search ends. Packed with nourishing ingredients, balanced sweetness, and rich flavor, it’s a perfect recipe to savor and share. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delightful bowl of comfort.