Introduction:
Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, red lentils, and a medley of spices. This warming soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a comforting meal on chilly days. The spices bring depth and warmth, while the lentils provide a satisfying texture. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its balance of flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) beef stew meat (cut into small cubes)
1 cup red lentils (rinsed and drained)
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
2 medium carrots (diced)
2 celery stalks (diced)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth (or water for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 bay leaf
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Sauté the Beef:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Garlic and Spices:
Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir for another minute until the spices become fragrant.
Simmer the Soup:
Return the browned beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Add Lentils:
Stir in the rinsed red lentils. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the beef is cooked through.
Final Seasoning:
Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili powder if needed.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot.
Description:
This Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup offers a wonderful combination of tender beef and protein-packed lentils, simmered in a flavorful broth with a variety of spices. The warmth of cumin and paprika complements the heat from the chili and cayenne, creating a perfect balance of spicy and savory. With each spoonful, you’ll enjoy the comforting texture of lentils and the richness of beef, making it a perfect meal for cooler days. The added vegetables like carrots and celery give the soup a touch of sweetness and freshness.
Tips:
Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder. If you like more heat, feel free to add extra chili powder or hot sauce.
Meat Options: Ground beef or lamb can also be used in place of stew meat. Just make sure to brown it well before adding the vegetables.
Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with more lentils or vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. It may thicken as it sits, so add a little water or broth when reheating.
Add Greens: To increase the nutritional value, you can stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Corrections/Improvements:
Ingredient Adjustments: Ensure that the beef is cut into small cubes or bite-sized pieces for easy consumption, especially if you’re serving to kids or people with smaller appetites.
Spice Control: If you’re unfamiliar with spicy foods, you may want to start with smaller amounts of cayenne and chili powder and taste-test along the way to avoid it becoming too hot for your taste.
Cooking Time: If using ground beef, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time—brown it first, then continue with the recipe as directed. Ground meat generally cooks faster than stew meat.
Enjoy this flavorful and spicy soup that will warm you from the inside out!
