Serves: 4

Why this spice: Small-batch Collected Foods seasoning — aromatic, balanced, and built for real home cooking.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal), plus more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of Collected Foods Aleppo Pepper, plus more to taste
• 1 quart chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• Juice of ½ lemon, more to taste
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. : Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics 1️⃣ In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat until shimmering.2️⃣ Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden, about 4 minutes. Step 2: Build the Flavor 3️⃣ Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, salt, black pepper, and Collected Foods Aleppo Pepper.4️⃣ Sauté for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and intensify in flavor. Step 3: Simmer the Soup 5️⃣ Add the broth, 2 cups of water, lentils, and diced carrot.6️⃣ Bring to a gentle simmer, then partly cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low.7️⃣ Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.8️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or Aleppo Pepper if needed. Step 4: Blend & Finish 9️⃣ Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), purée half the soup and return it to the pot. This creates a texture that’s both smooth and slightly chunky.🔟 Reheat if necessary, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped cilantro. Step 5: Serve & Enjoy 🔟 Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with good olive oil.🔟 Dust with a pinch of chili powder or extra Aleppo Pepper for added warmth. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips 📌 Make Ahead: This soup stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge.📌 Freeze It: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.📌 Reheat Before Serving: Stir well, and add a little extra broth or water if needed. Serving Suggestions ✨ Serve with warm pita, naan, or crusty bread for dipping.✨ Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.✨ Garnish with yogurt or sour cream for a creamier finish. Why Use Collected Foods Aleppo Pepper? Our Aleppo Pepper offers fruity, mild heat with hints of sun-dried tomatoes and cumin, making it a perfect addition to soups, stews, and roasted dishes. Unlike regular chili flakes, Aleppo pepper provides complex warmth without overpowering heat.

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