Red Lentil Soup (Shaurabat Adas)

Kuwait red lentil soup, called shaurabat adas, is yummy. It is flavored with baharat a Middle Eastern spice blend, that is made up of :4 parts black pepper, 3 parts coriander seeds, 3 parts cinnamon, 3 parts cloves, 4 parts cumin seeds, 1 part cardamom pods, 3 parts nutmeg and 6 parts paprika. These spices are ground together to make the blend. It is a wonderful seasoning that can be used to rub on meats, or to season soups, like it calls for in this recipe. Loomi or dried black limes are also used in this recipe to give it that true Arab gulf region flavor. You can find loomi at your Middle Eastern market or you can substitute the zest of a lime, however, it will not be quite the same. This recipe is delicious served with some lemon. It is also hearty, and would make a lovely lunch, with a salad and flat bread.