Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup

**Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food**

When the weather turns cold or you’re craving a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, **Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup** is the perfect choice. This rich, hearty soup combines the earthiness of red lentils with the savory depth of ground beef, all spiced with aromatic herbs and a kick of heat. Packed with protein, fiber, and robust flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen—whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy lunch.

Let’s dive into why this soup is a must-try and how to make it from scratch!

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### Why You’ll Love Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup

1. **Hearty and Satisfying**: The combination of red lentils and ground beef creates a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting meal. The lentils offer fiber and protein, while the beef adds richness and depth.

2. **Perfectly Spiced**: With a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder, this soup has the perfect balance of warmth and heat. The spices enhance the flavors of the lentils and beef, creating a well-rounded, comforting soup.

3. **Nutrient-Packed**: Red lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and essential vitamins, making this soup not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a great way to incorporate more legumes into your diet.

4. **Easy to Make**: Despite the rich flavors, this soup is surprisingly easy to make. It requires simple ingredients and a bit of simmering time to let the flavors meld together, making it a great weeknight meal or meal prep option.

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### Ingredients for Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup

– 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
– 1 tbsp ground cumin
– 1 tbsp paprika
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp chili powder (adjust based on heat preference)
– ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1-2 cups water (adjust depending on desired consistency)
– Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
– A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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### How to Make Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup

#### Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. **Heat the Oil**: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

2. **Add Garlic**: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

#### Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. **Brown the Beef**: Add the ground beef to the pot and break it up with a spoon. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. If there is excess fat, drain it off.

2. **Season the Meat**: Stir in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices, letting them toast for about 1 minute to bring out their flavor.

#### Step 3: Add the Liquids and Lentils

1. **Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes**: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 2 minutes. This deepens the flavor of the soup. Then, add the diced tomatoes with their juices.

2. **Pour in the Broth**: Add the beef broth to the pot, followed by the red lentils. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat.

#### Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. **Simmer the Soup**: Once the soup begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

2. **Adjust Consistency**: If the soup becomes too thick, add water, one cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

#### Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top adds a touch of brightness that balances the richness of the soup.

2. **Enjoy**: Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread or a dollop of yogurt on the side to complement the spiciness.

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### Tips for the Perfect Spicy Red Lentil and Beef Soup

1. **Adjust the Spice Level**: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili powder and cumin. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili peppers to the soup.

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