A cookbook author and founder of the popular blog Feel Good Foodie, Yumna Jawad is inspired by the Lebanese foods of her childhood. This easy and comforting lentil soup is one of her favorites. It’s typically made with red lentils, onions, cumin and lemon juice, but her mom always added short-grain rice and carrots to make the soup hearty and colorful, so Yumna has followed her lead. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving lends zesty brightness and balances the flavors. You can find red lentils at Middle Eastern markets, natural foods stores or large supermarkets, often located with other Middle Eastern ingredients.

This recipe is featured on Yumna’s Ramadan menu, and can be served as part of an iftar meal or Eid al-Fitr celebration with family and friends.