Delicious Beef and Lentil Soup Recipe - Easy to Make

Welcome! If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare meal, you’ve come to the right place. Beef and Lentil Soup is perfect for home cooks, health enthusiasts, and busy families alike. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins, this soup is a delicious way to nourish your body. Let’s dive into how you can make this comforting dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (200g) lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Season the beef with salt and pepper.
• Add the beef to the pot and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil.
• Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

• Return the beef to the pot.
• Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
• Stir to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmer the Soup

• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lentils and beef are tender.
• Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

• Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme towards the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor.
• Splash of Vinegar: A small splash of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can brighten up the flavors just before serving.
• Spices: Feel free to add more spices like chili powder or turmeric if you prefer a spicier or more aromatic soup.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion the soup into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Beef: Rich in high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
• Lentils: Packed with protein, fiber, and several essential vitamins and minerals. They help keep you full and provide sustained energy.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the soup, contributing to overall health.

Conclusion

Beef and Lentil Soup is a nutritious, satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with us. Have any variations or special touches you like to add? Let us know in the comments or by tagging us in your social media posts. Happy cooking!