Sweet Dates and Lentil Soup for Iftar

A nourishing and comforting soup paired with sweet dates, perfect for a wholesome iftar meal to break your fast gently and replenish energy.

Steps

1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until water runs clear. 2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. 3. Add cumin and turmeric, stir for 1 minute. 4. Add lentils and water or broth to the pot. Bring to a boil. 5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are soft. 6. Season with salt and pepper. 7. While the soup cooks, wash and pit the dates. 8. Serve the soup warm, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired, alongside the sweet dates as a natural treat to break your fast.

1/4 cup red lentils 2 cups water or vegetable broth 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp turmeric Salt and pepper to taste 3-4 dates, pitted 1 tsp olive oil Fresh lemon wedge (optional) Chopped fresh parsley for garnish