Authentic Shorbat Adas Akhdar: Classic Emirati Green Lentil Soup for Ramadan & Everyday UAE Meals
Experience the comforting taste of Emirati Green Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas Akhdar / شوربة عدس أخضر), a nourishing dish loved across Dubai and the UAE. In traditional Gulf kitchens, green lentils are a staple ingredient used to create hearty, flavorful soups that are both wholesome and satisfying. Unlike red lentils that cook into a creamy texture, green lentils hold their shape, giving this soup a delicious bite and rich, rustic character.
This authentic Emirati lentil soup recipe is infused with warm Middle Eastern spices such as cumin and cinnamon, along with the distinctive tang of dried lime (loomi)—a signature ingredient in Gulf cuisine. Naturally vegan, protein-rich, and packed with fiber, this healthy soup is perfect for family dinners, cooler evenings, or as a light starter during Ramadan iftar.
Simple to prepare and made with pantry staples easily found in UAE supermarkets, this traditional green lentil soup is both budget-friendly and full of flavor. Whether you’re exploring Emirati cuisine for the first time or looking for a comforting healthy meal, this recipe brings the authentic taste of the Middle East to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Emirati Green Lentil Soup
• Authentic Gulf flavors with a local twist (loomi for tanginess).
• Ready in under 1 hour.
• Naturally gluten-free, vegan, and customizable.
• Great for meal prep—tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
• 1 cup (200g) green lentils (rinsed; soak 1-2 hours for faster cooking if desired)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced (adds heartiness, common in Gulf versions)
• 1-2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (or a pinch of cardamom for authentic Emirati warmth)
• 1 dried lime (loomi), pierced (essential for tang; substitute lemon juice if needed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 6-8 cups vegetable or chicken stock (or water)
• Optional: Pinch of turmeric, fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley or coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and golden (5-7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add spices and vegetables: Mix in cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper (and turmeric if using). Toss in diced carrots, potatoes, and celery. Sauté for 3-5 minutes to let the veggies absorb the spices.
3. Incorporate lentils and broth: Add rinsed green lentils and stir for 1-2 minutes. Pour in stock or water, then drop in the pierced dried lime (loomi). Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer to perfection: Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 40-60 minutes until lentils and veggies are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally; add more liquid if it gets too thick.
5. Finish and serve: Remove the loomi (or add fresh lemon juice for brightness). Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve chunky for texture, or partially blend for a smoother soup. Garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon squeeze.
Enjoy hot with fresh Arabic bread (khubz), dates, or as part of a larger Emirati spread. This soup is light yet filling—perfect for Dubai’s weather or as a soothing Ramadan dish!
Tips for the Best Results
• Use Honesto green lentils for authentic UAE quality (available at www.purestofoods.com).
• For extra Emirati flair, add a pinch of saffron or serve with yogurt on the side.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for quick meals.
Try this traditional Emirati green lentil soup recipe at home and bring the flavors of the UAE to your table! If you love Gulf-inspired cooking, check out variations like Mujaddara (lentils and rice) next. Share your photos or tweaks in the comments—happy cooking! 😊