Imagine a steaming bowl of Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup, the rich aroma of cumin and smoked paprika filling your kitchen, while vibrant flecks of orange carrot and fresh parsley dance against the earthy green lentils.
This hearty, aromatic soup offers more than just warmth on a chilly day; it’s a comforting embrace that promises satisfaction after a long day.
I remember one particularly hectic evening when time slipped away, and the thought of cooking seemed intimidating.
This soup came to my rescue, its ingredients readily available and the cooking process simple yet rewarding.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something nourishing yet quick or for those leisurely Sunday suppers when you can let it simmer while you relax.
Ready to plunge into a bowl of comfort and flavor? Let’s cook!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a blend of spices and fresh ingredients.
- Uses pantry staples like lentils, tomatoes, and beef broth for convenience.
- Provides a hearty, protein-rich meal perfect for any time of year.
- Freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep and future meals.
- Offers a comforting, Mediterranean-inspired dish that delights the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef — choose lean for a healthier option.
- 1 cup green lentils — rinse thoroughly to remove debris.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — opt for extra virgin for better flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped — use fresh for peak taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic enhances flavor.
- 1 carrot, diced — organic carrots are sweeter.
- 1 celery stalk, diced — adds a fresh, crisp taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin — gives a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika — adds a rich, smoky taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt — adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground is best.
- 4 cups beef broth — low-sodium if preferred.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes — choose no added salt.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped — adds a bright, fresh finish.
Step-by-Step Method
Heat the Oil
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to guarantee the oil is evenly distributed across the pot’s surface.
Waiting for the oil to shimmer confirms it’s hot enough to start sautéing. This step sets the foundation for the flavors to develop in the soup as you proceed.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, releasing its sweetness, and the garlic becomes fragrant.
This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and guarantee even cooking. This step is essential for building a flavorful base.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use the wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces.
Cook until the beef is browned, which typically takes about 6-8 minutes. Browning adds a rich, deep flavor to the soup. Make sure to stir occasionally, so the beef cooks evenly and no pink remains.
Add Vegetables
Stir in the diced carrot and celery. Cook them for an additional 5 minutes.
This step helps to soften the vegetables, allowing them to meld with the other ingredients. The vegetables will add a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
Season the Soup
Mix in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
These spices add warmth and complexity to the soup, balancing the flavors. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, depending on your taste preference.
Incorporate Lentils and Broth
Add the rinsed green lentils, beef broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil. This step allows the lentils to start absorbing the flavors, while the broth provides a rich base for the soup.
Simmer Gently
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Check the lentils for tenderness and continue cooking if needed. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, creating a hearty and satisfying soup.
Rest the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 10 minutes.
This resting period allows the flavors to settle and intensify. The soup will thicken slightly as it cools, enhancing its texture. This step guarantees a well-rounded taste before serving.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish the soup with chopped fresh parsley before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant note that complements the hearty flavors.
Serve the soup warm, allowing guests to enjoy the robust and comforting taste of this Mediterranean-inspired dish. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or additional vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- To make the dish gluten-free, verify that all the ingredients (particularly the beef broth) are certified gluten-free.
- If green lentils are unavailable, you can use brown lentils, but note they may cook slightly faster.
- For a budget-friendly option, canned lentils can be used; just reduce the cooking time since they’re already cooked.
You Must Know
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse the green lentils before adding them to the soup to remove any debris or impurities, guaranteeing a clean and tasty dish.
- Brown the Beef: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned for a rich, savory flavor that forms the base of your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Sautéing the onion and garlic until the onion is translucent helps to release their natural flavors, creating a delicious aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, to make certain the lentils become tender and all flavors meld together perfectly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the soup rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to fully develop and settle, resulting in a more harmonious taste.
Serving Tips
- Serve with crusty bread or warm pita for a complete meal.
- Pair with a simple green salad for added freshness.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Accompany with a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare and freeze in portions, ensuring to leave room for expansion.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
To gently reheat Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup, use the microwave on medium power.
Alternatively, use the oven at 300°F in a covered dish.
You can also use the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Mediterranean Culinary Traditions
While exploring Mediterranean culinary traditions, you’ll discover a rich array of flavors and techniques that have been cherished for centuries.
Imagine the scent of fresh herbs, the tang of ripe tomatoes, and the earthiness of legumes, all mingling in vibrant harmony. The Mediterranean diet isn’t just about sustenance; it’s a celebration of life’s simple pleasures.
As you savor dishes like our Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup, you’ll taste the soul of a region steeped in history and warmth.
Each ingredient tells a story—from the robust ground beef to the humble lentil, united by aromatic spices like cumin and smoked paprika. It’s this fusion of elements that brings a unique depth and complexity, inviting you to savor every spoonful.
Final Thoughts
We hope you give this hearty Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup a try—it’s perfect for a cozy family meal!
Feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your taste buds, perhaps by adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra zing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely, you can swap ground beef for another meat like turkey or chicken. I love using lamb for a rich flavor twist. It’s fun to experiment and see how different meats change the soup’s essence!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, I’d swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and it’ll still be hearty and packed with vibrant flavors. Enjoy!
What Is the Nutritional Information per Serving?
To find the nutritional info per serving, I recommend using an online calculator. Just input the ingredients, and you’ll get vibrant details about calories, protein, and other nutrients. It’s a fun way to explore food!
Are There Any Gluten-Free Alternatives for This Soup?
I’d suggest using gluten-free beef broth to guarantee the soup remains gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t need to change much. Enjoy the hearty, delicious flavors without worry!
Can I Freeze the Leftovers for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze the leftovers! I always let the soup cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and then pop them in the freezer. When I’m ready, I just reheat and enjoy a cozy meal.
Ground Beef Green Lentil Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup green lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cup beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the green lentils, beef broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the lentils for tenderness, and continue to cook if necessary.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
