Discover the Wholesome Goodness of Ezogelin Soup.
Savor the essence of Turkish cuisine with Ezogelin Soup, a beloved Anatolian recipe blending red lentils, rice, and bulgur with aromatic herbs and spices. This creamy, comforting soup is a tribute to Turkish culinary tradition, offering bold flavors and nourishing warmth in every bite.
Whether served as a starter or a main dish, Ezogelin Soup is a versatile choice for family meals, dinner parties, or cozy evenings. The addition of tomato paste, mint, and a touch of lemon creates a harmonious balance of tangy and savory flavors that will leave you craving more.
Embrace the rich heritage of Turkish cooking with this easy-to-make yet deeply satisfying soup. Pair it with fresh bread and a sprinkle of dried mint for an authentic culinary experience.
For the Soup:
⦁ 1 cup (200 ml) red lentils
⦁ 1/3 cup fine bulgur
⦁ 3 tablespoons rice
⦁ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
⦁ 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
⦁ 2 tablespoons butter
⦁ 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
⦁ 5 cups water (1 liter)
⦁ 1 meat bouillon or meat stock (optional)
⦁ Salt, to taste
For the Sauce:
⦁ 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
⦁ 2 tablespoons tomato paste
⦁ 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
⦁ 1 cup (200 ml) water
⦁ 1 teaspoon dried mint
⦁ 1/2 teaspoon ground red pepper
⦁ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
⦁ Lemon wedges
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a medium pot, heat butter and vegetable oil. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent.
2. Cook the Grains: Wash and drain lentils, bulgur, and rice. Add to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Simmer: Pour in water and bouillon (if using). Cover the pot and cook on medium heat for 20–30 minutes, or until the grains are tender.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat vegetable oil and sauté the flour until lightly browned. Add tomato paste and sauté briefly. Gradually pour in water, stirring continuously, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Flavor the Soup: Add dried mint, red pepper, and black pepper to the sauce, then pour it into the soup pot. Stir well and cook for 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients
✔ Red Lentils – Rinse thoroughly to remove starch and ensure a smooth texture
✔ Fine Bulgur – Adds hearty body and traditional Turkish texture
✔ Short-Grain Rice – For added creaminess and gentle bite
✔ Onion – Yellow or white, finely chopped for a rich base
✔ Garlic – Fresh cloves, minced for depth and aroma
✔ Tomato Paste – Use double concentrate for a bold, savory flavor
✔ Butter & Olive Oil – A mix adds richness and enhances aromatics
✔ Dried Mint – Signature flavor that defines Ezogelin; don’t skip it
✔ Aleppo Pepper (Pul Biber) – Mild, smoky heat that rounds out the soup
✔ Ground Cumin – Adds earthy warmth and balance
✔ Salt & Pepper – Season generously to taste
✔ Lemon – Serve with wedges for a fresh, tangy finish
👩🍳 Preparation
✔ Sauté Aromatics – Cook onion and garlic in butter and olive oil until golden
✔ Toast Tomato Paste – Stir in and cook briefly to deepen the flavor
✔ Add Lentils First – Let them start cooking before adding rice and bulgur
✔ Simmer Slowly – Let it gently cook until grains are soft and flavors meld
✔ Skim Foam – If any appears, skim for a clearer, cleaner broth
🔥 Cooking Techniques
✔ Bloom Spices – Warm mint and Aleppo pepper in butter or oil for max aroma
✔ Stir Occasionally – Prevent sticking and ensure even cooking
✔ Watch Texture – Soup thickens as it rests; add water or stock to adjust
✔ Final Touch – Add lemon juice at the end or let guests do it to taste
🍳 Balancing Flavors
✔ Don’t Oversalt Early – Wait until after simmering to adjust seasoning
✔ Lemon is Essential – Balances richness with a bright lift
✔ Use Stock (Optional) – Replace part of the water with vegetable or chicken stock for deeper flavor
✔ Garnish Smart – Sprinkle dried mint or chili flakes on top for flair
📦 Storage
✔ Fridge Friendly – Keeps 3–4 days; flavors deepen over time
✔ Freezer Option – Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months
✔ Reheat Gently – Add water if needed; heat slowly to preserve consistency
🍽 Serving
✔ Classic Style – Serve hot with lemon wedges and warm bread
✔ Add Yogurt – A spoonful of thick yogurt adds creaminess
✔ Texture Boost – Try crispy croutons or fried onions as a topping
✔ Make it a Meal – Pair with a light salad or stuffed grape leaves