Duru Red Split Lentils – 1 kg

Few ingredients do as much for as little as a bag of red split lentils. This 1kg pack from Duru gives you bright orange lentils that cook down in about twenty minutes into a soft, creamy texture, making them the backbone of countless Turkish soups, stews and köfte recipes.

A Turkish Kitchen Essential

In Turkey, kırmızı mercimek is in almost every cupboard. Split and hulled before packing, these red split lentils need no soaking and break down quickly as they cook, thickening whatever they are added to. That makes them ideal for busy weeknights, when you want something nourishing and comforting on the table without much effort.

They are also wonderfully economical. A single cup of dried lentils, a few vegetables and some spices can feed a whole family, which is why lentil dishes have been a staple of home cooking across Anatolia for generations.

Mercimek Çorbası at Home

If there is one dish every Turkish home cook knows by heart, it is mercimek çorbası, the classic lentil soup served in lokantas, at family dinners and as the first course at iftar during Ramadan. Here is a simple version that serves four.

1. Rinse one cup of lentils until the water runs almost clear.
2. In a large pan, gently fry a chopped onion and a grated carrot in butter or olive oil until soft.
3. Stir in a tablespoon of tomato or pepper paste and cook for a minute.
4. Add the lentils and about a litre and a half of hot water or stock, then simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until completely soft.
5. Blend until smooth, season with salt, cumin and black pepper, and add a little more water if it is too thick.
6. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of butter sizzled with red pepper flakes and dried mint.

More Ways to Use Red Split Lentils

• Make mercimek köftesi, the popular lentil and bulgur patties served in lettuce leaves.
• Add a handful to vegetable stews and curries to thicken and enrich them.
• Cook into a quick dal with garlic, ginger and spices.
• Stir into tomato sauces for a protein-rich pasta dinner.
• Blend cooked lentils with herbs and lemon for a simple spread.

Consistent Quality

Duru is one of Turkey's best-known names for pulses and grains, and Duru lentils are cleaned and graded with care so you get even, uniform pieces that cook at the same rate. That consistency makes a real difference to texture, especially in smooth soups where you want every lentil to soften fully.

Lentils are naturally rich in plant protein and fibre and are suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets, making them a practical choice for healthy, budget-friendly meals.

Storage

Keep in a cool, dry place in a sealed container once opened. Rinse before cooking and check for any small stones. Please refer to the pack for the best before date and full allergen information.

Order Online From Robin Food

Robin Food delivers Turkish pulses and grains across the UK, with same-day delivery available in many London areas. Stock up with our green lentils, fine bulgur and tomato paste.