Burmese Lentil Soup

An easy ethnic soup. Low fat, low calorie - very healthy and tasty. From the book "Bangkok to Bali".

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2  teaspoons  minced garlic
• 2  teaspoons  minced gingerroot
• 1⁄2 cup red lentil
• 3  tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1  tablespoon  vegetable oil
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon turmeric
• 4 -5  shallots (slice thin and fry to a crisp)
• 4  cups water

Directions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water in colander or sieve. Drain.
2. Heat oil in large saucepan on medium.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Stir-fry 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils and fry until they begin to change color (from orange to white/yellow).
5. Turn heat to medium high and bring water to boil. Immediately reduce heat to medium low for steady simmer.
6. Cook 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft. Add salt and stir.
7. Serve with crispy fried shallots and ground sesame seeds mixed with salt.