Adas Sudani (Golden Red Lentil Soup with Cumin, Garlic & Lemon) – Authentic South Sudan Recipe

Ingredients for Adas Sudani (Golden Red Lentil Soup with Cumin, Garlic & Lemon) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) creamy red lentils simmered with carrots and onions, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups crusty bread croutons, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup fresh lemon wedges
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted cumin
• 1.5 tbsp traditional South Sudan seasoning (sizzled garlic in oil, turmeric, fresh cilantro)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and toasted cumin for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in sizzled garlic in oil, turmeric, fresh cilantro and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of South Sudan's kitchen.
3. Add creamy red lentils simmered with carrots and onions and crusty bread croutons, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in fresh lemon wedges, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.