Soupe de Lentilles et Pois Chiches d’Ounianga (Saharan Oasis Spiced Pulse Soup) – Authentic Chad Recipe

Ingredients for Soupe de Lentilles et Pois Chiches d’Ounianga (Saharan Oasis Spiced Pulse Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) red lentils and cooked chickpeas, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups diced carrots and tomatoes, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup warm flatbread
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted cumin
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Chad seasoning (coriander, garlic, fresh cilantro, lemon)
• 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 coriander, garlic, fresh cilantro, lemon and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Chad's kitchen.
3. Add red lentils and cooked chickpeas and diced carrots and tomatoes, 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 warm flatbread, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.