Beef and Lentil Soup

#### Instructions:

1. **Brown the Beef:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
– Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

3. **Add the Lentils and Broth:**
– Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated.
– Add the rinsed lentils, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), thyme, cumin (if using), and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine.

4. **Simmer the Soup:**
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the lentils are cooked through.
– Stir occasionally and check the consistency. If the soup gets too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.

5. **Season and Finish:**
– Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Add salt and pepper to taste.
– If you like a touch of brightness, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the soup before serving to balance the flavors.

6. **Serve:**
– Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve hot.

#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
– **Hearty and Satisfying:** The combination of beef and lentils provides a balanced mix of protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.
– **One-Pot Wonder:** This is a one-pot meal, making it easy to prepare and clean up afterward. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully during the slow simmer.
– **Perfect for Meal Prep:** This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It also freezes well, so you can store leftovers for later.
– **Naturally Nutritious:** Packed with essential nutrients, this soup is rich in iron, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome, nutritious meal.

#### Variations:
– **Vegetarian Version:** You can skip the beef and use vegetable broth and additional vegetables such as potatoes, zucchini, or parsnips for a hearty vegetarian version.
– **Add Greens:** For extra nutrition, stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the final minutes of cooking.
– **Spicy Kick:** If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

#### Health Benefits:
– **Rich in Protein and Fiber:** The combination of beef and lentils provides a hearty, filling meal that is perfect for muscle repair and digestive health.
– **Supports Heart Health:** Lentils are high in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels, while the beef provides iron, supporting healthy blood circulation.
– **Boosts Immunity:** The carrots and tomatoes offer a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while garlic adds natural anti-inflammatory benefits to the soup.

#### Conclusion:
This **Beef and Lentil Soup** is an incredibly flavorful, nourishing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold day, or a hearty, healthy dinner, this soup is the answer. With its rich, savory broth, tender beef, and nutritious lentils, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Plus, the best part is that it’s easy to make, versatile, and even better as leftovers!

So, next time you’re in the mood for something wholesome and satisfying, give this **Beef and Lentil Soup** a try – you won’t be disappointed!