Discover the ultimate comfort food that warms both the heart and the soul: Lentil Soup with Beef! This hearty dish combines tender lentils and savory ground beef, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for cozy nights in or as a nutritious family meal, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Ready to impress your loved ones with a bowl of deliciousness? Dive into our simple yet satisfying recipe that guarantees to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cumin, cooking for another 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, including the liquid from the tomato can. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and bring the mixture to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the soup for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a clean taste.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy pot helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the ingredients from sticking or burning.
- Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take your time to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
- Don’t Rush the Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer gently for 35-40 minutes. This not only tenderizes the lentils but also melds the flavors beautifully.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is thicker than desired, simply add more beef broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving enhances the flavors, making each bowl even more delicious.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish that elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
