Turkish Bride Soup

Get ready to be transported to the heart of Turkish tradition with this rich and homely dish known as Turkish Bride Soup. Though it leans more towards a stew than a soup, we honor its historical significance by preserving the original recipe. Legend has it that Ezo, a Turkish widow, prepared this delightful soup in an attempt to impress her second mother-in-law—though her efforts were in vain. Today, this soup takes center stage at Turkish weddings, symbolizing love and celebration.

Note on Soy-Free Potential: This Turkish Bride Soup is soy-free, making it an excellent option for those with soy allergies or sensitivities.

YIELD: 4 to 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (160 g) finely minced onion
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mint, or to taste (See headnote)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 3/4 cup (141 g) dry bulgur
• 1/2 cup (96 g) split red lentils, picked over and rinsed
• 5 cups (1.2 L) vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 ounces, or 425 g) fire-roasted, crushed tomatoes
• Juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1 bunch (8 ounces, or 227 g) Swiss chard, stems removed, leaves thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon (9 g) toasted pine nuts

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat. Add the minced onion and salt, and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are softened.
2. Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, dried mint, red pepper flakes, bulgur, and lentils. Cook and stir for 2 minutes to lightly infuse the spices into the mixture.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until the bulgur and lentils are tender. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
4. In a large skillet, cook the Swiss chard over medium heat for 3 minutes until it turns bright green but remains moist. Add a splash of water during cooking to keep it tender and flavorful. Season the chard with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, ladle the Turkish Bride Soup into 4 bowls. Top each bowl with an equal amount of Swiss chard and toasted pine nuts for added texture and nutty goodness.

As you savor each spoonful of this Turkish Bride Soup with Bulgur, you’ll feel the rich tapestry of Turkish tradition and love in every bite. The blend of aromatic spices, tender bulgur, and nutritious Swiss chard creates a truly comforting and satisfying experience. Whether you serve it at a celebratory gathering or simply enjoy it as a cozy family meal, this hearty “stoup” embodies the spirit of togetherness and culinary heritage.

So, let this flavorful soup-stew take you on a culinary journey to the heart of Turkey. Share the love and history behind this dish with your loved ones as you create lasting memories around the dinner table. Don’t forget to top each bowl with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts and perhaps a touch of mint, if you’re feeling adventurous. Embrace the warmth and nourishment of Turkish Bride Soup and celebrate the joy it brings to your home. Enjoy!