Dive into the heart of Colombian cuisine with the irresistible "Sopa de Lentejas con Carne Colombiana"! This hearty lentil soup, brimming with tender beef and vibrant vegetables, promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is not just a meal—it's a flavorful journey to Colombia. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you'll create a comforting bowl of goodness that beckons for seconds. Ready to uncover the secrets of this traditional recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 250g beef, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 potato, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add diced beef and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes until it develops a nice golden color.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté with the beef for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Incorporate diced carrots and potatoes into the pot. Stir to combine with the meat and aromatics.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the tenderness of the lentils and meat. Add more salt and pepper to taste if needed.
- Once lentils are soft and meat is tender, remove from heat. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh cilantro or a slice of lime on the side.
Tips
- Soak the Lentils: For an even creamier texture, consider soaking the lentils in water for a few hours before cooking. This can help them cook faster and more evenly.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme while the soup simmers. Remember to remove it before serving!
- Meat Variation: Feel free to substitute the beef with chicken or even a vegetarian protein like tempeh for a delicious twist on this classic dish.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the lentils before serving. For a thinner consistency, simply add more beef broth.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime can elevate your soup’s presentation and flavor—don’t skip this step!
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with crusty bread or arepas for a complete Colombian experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
