Total time
50 min
Servings
1
Calories
395.1
Category
Southwest Asia (middle East)
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southwest Asia with this authentic Armenian Apricot Soup. This naturally vegan, low-cholesterol recipe highlights the deep, sun-kissed sweetness of dried apricots, balanced by warming spices for a healthy and comforting dish. Perfect for a quick, nutritious meal that comes together in under an hour.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 extra virgin olive oil
- 2 onions
- 3 carrots
- 1 ground cumin
- 3 red lentils
- 10 water
- 12 salt
Method
Heat the oil in your soup pot over medium heat, then stir in the onions and carrots. Saute for about 10 minutes. Add the cumin and stir well. Decrease the heat, cover, and let the vegetables sweat for ten minutes.
Add the lentils and pour in enough of the water to cover. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium low and cook for twenty minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender. Add more of the water as needed as the lentils soften and expand.
Remove from the heat, stir in the apricots and any remaining water, and season with salt. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth; alternatively working in batches, puree in a regular blender until smooth. Take care not to over salt this soup. The right amount will bring out the flavor of the apricots but leave the onions in the background. Serve hot.
Cook's notes
- Use high-quality sun-dried apricots that are unsulphured for the most intense fruit flavor.
- Puree half of the mixture and leave the rest chunky if you prefer a rustic, textured soup.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten the natural sweetness of the apricots.
Easy swaps
- Swap vegetable broth for water if you want a lighter, more fruit-forward flavor profile.
- Add toasted slivered almonds or walnuts on top for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to lean into the traditional Middle Eastern spice palette.
Frequently asked
Is Armenian Apricot Soup served hot or cold?
It can be enjoyed both ways! It is traditionally served warm as a comforting bowl, but it also makes a refreshing chilled soup during warmer months.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it an excellent choice for various dietary requirements.
Can I make this soup in a blender?
Absolutely. Using an immersion blender is the easiest way to reach your desired consistency right in the pot, but a standard blender works fine if you allow the soup to cool slightly first.
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