Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions.
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in large saucepan set over medium heat; cook onions, carrots, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander and cayenne for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened.
- Stir in broth, 1 cup water, lentils, tomato paste, bay leaves, salt and pepper; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 20 to 30 minutes or until lentils are very tender. Reserve 1/2 cup couscous; stir in remaining couscous. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/4 cup parsley, lemon zest and lemon juice. Divide soup among 4 bowls. Top with dollop of yogurt, reserved couscous, parsley and drizzle of olive oil.
The Best Filling Soup
This filling red lentil and turmeric pearl couscous soup is incredibly flavorful and versatile. It’s a wonderful comfort food meal and exactly what you need when the weather starts to cool off and you’re looking for something to soothe and warm you from the inside out. Starting with a base of vegetables like onions, carrot and garlic, other vegetables can also be substituted in such as sweet potato, shallots, broccoli, leek and more.
And, while this dish is meat-free, you can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. With a rich tomato taste and a kick from the cayenne pepper, coriander and cumin, to add a finishing touch and contrast of flavor and texture, we’ve added a dollop of refreshing Greek yogurt.
What Is Pearl Couscous?
Also traditionally known as Israeli Couscous, Pearl Couscous is named for its unique shape when formed into small spheres then toasted in an open-flame oven. Similar to traditional Couscous and Tri-Color Couscous it’s made from the highest quality semolina wheat but is slightly larger. Also, contrary to common belief, both are actually pasta rather than grains.
Other Meal Inspiration
For a more Mediterranean flavored dish why not try out an Arborio Rice recipe from our website? Or what about an Orzo Recipe? You can find more information in the What is Orzo? section on our website.
The variety used in this recipe is our specialty Pearl Couscous with Turmeric. With the added superfood turmeric, you’ll be enjoying added flavor and benefits. Unlock layers of your culinary creativity and use it for salads or as a delicious bed for grilled or roasted fish, vegetables or chicken like our Chicken Shawarma and Turmeric Couscous recipe.
