Introduction
Welcome to a vibrant kitchen journey where we explore the depth of flavors in “Lentil Soup, Date Balls, Celery Salad.” This recipe marries hearty ingredients with delicate spices, promising an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s dive into this wholesome meal that brings together the rustic charm of lentils and celery salad while treating your taste buds to the sweetness of date balls.
Tips for This Recipe
To elevate your Lentil Soup, Date Balls, and Celery Salad, consider these tips: Pre-soaking lentils can reduce cooking time; infuse celery stems into the soup base for extra flavor. For date balls, ensure dates are well pitted to avoid surprises during enjoyment.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Embrace the warmth of this comforting Lentil Soup and celebrate its rich taste with zesty Date Balls that add a touch of sweetness, perfectly complemented by the refreshing crunch of Celery Salad. Together, these elements create an all-inclusive meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to savor—a true testament to nourishment and joy in one bowl.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons (27 grams) kosher salt
1 tablespoon (7.6 grams) ground cumin
1 tablespoon (5.5 grams) ground coriander
1 teaspoon (2.6 grams) ground white pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons (4 grams) sweet paprika
1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon (1.4 grams) ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon (0.2 gram) saffron threads
2 cups (484 grams) tomato paste (not double concentrate)
8 quarts plus 1 cup (7.6 kilograms) cold water
2 bunches (8 ounces/224 grams) cilantro, leaves and tender stems only
1 bunch (4 ounces/112 grams) flat-leaf parsley, leaves and tender stems only
1 1/2 pounds (680 grams) yellow onions
Green leaves from 1 bunch celery, about 3 cups (35 grams); stalks reserved for garnish
1/3 cup (44 grams) all-purpose flour
2 cups (468 grams) warm water (about 110°F)
1/8 teaspoon (0.4 gram) active dry yeast (not quick-rising)
Kosher salt
3 tablespoons (45 grams) fresh lemon juice, or to taste
12 Medjool dates
Extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 cups (288 grams) dried green lentils, preferably French, picked through and rinsed
Reserved bunch of celery (from above)
2 tablespoons (27 grams) extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (8 grams) minced flat-leaf parsley
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Adviced Equipments
To bring this recipe to life, arm yourself with the following equipment:
– Food Processor
– Blender or food processor for date balls
– Large pot for lentils and soup preparation
– Mixing bowl and spoon/whisk for ingredients
History
This delightful ensemble of dishes hails from the ancient traditions of Middle Eastern cuisine, with a modern twist that incorporates local flavors. The Lentil Soup serves as a staple in many cultures for its nutritional value and heartiness. Date balls are a sweet treat often enjoyed during festive seasons, while celery salad offers a crisp complement to the richer components of this meal. Together, they create an experience that is both comforting and celebratory.
Cooking Instructions
1. Begin by preparing the lentils. In a large pot, combine rinsed lentils with water, salt, cumin, coriander, white pepper, paprika, ginger, turmeric, and saffron threads. Bring to a boil, then simmer until tender but not mushy.
2. While the lentils cook, chop onions finely and prepare celery stalks by separating leaves from stalks for later use.
3. Make date balls by pitting dates, combining with flour, water, lemon juice, oil, and parsley in a blender until it forms a sticky mixture. Roll into small balls and chill.
4. For the celery salad, toss chopped celery leaves and stalks with olive oil, salt, and pepper; allow to sit for 10 minutes before serving.
5. Once lentils are cooked, strain them if necessary. In a separate saucepan, sauté onions until golden, then blend in the reserved celery stalks for extra flavor. Combine with lentils and vegetable stock to make the soup base; add water as needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Serve the warm lentil soup garnished with celery leaves, accompanied by cool date balls on the side and a refreshing celery salad for balance.