This Gourmet Thick Lentil Meat and Potato Soup is a hearty dish that combines tender lentils, rich, savory meat, and perfectly cooked potatoes. Ideal for a nourishing meal, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 200 grams dry lentils
- 350 grams beef or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 liters of beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils and Meat
- Rinse the lentils under cold water, drain, and set aside.
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned beef or lamb, and sauté until browned.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrot to the pot with the meat. Cook until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Spices
Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, and cumin. Allow the ingredients to cook together for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the lentils and broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour or until the lentils, meat, and potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Blend for Texture
Mix the soup with a hand blender to thicken it slightly, leaving some chunks of lentils, potato, and meat for texture.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips and Tricks
- Sear the Meat: Browning the meat before adding it to the soup enhances its flavor and depth.
- Soup Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
- Vegetarian Option: For a hearty vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty lentil soup with a slice of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir to complement the flavors of the meat and lentils.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
Dietary Modifications
- Vegetarian: Leave out the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, containing no gluten-containing ingredients.
- Lower Fat: Use lean meat or swap the meat for a plant-based protein to lower the fat content.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
About Hearty Lentil Soup with Meat
This thick lentil soup combines hearty lentils, savory meat, and tender potatoes, creating a satisfying and nourishing dish. Perfect for cooler days or when you’re craving something comforting, this soup is a staple in Bulgarian homes, reflecting the use of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a balanced meal.
Cultural Context
In Bulgaria, lentil soups are a beloved part of the culinary landscape, particularly in colder months. Lentils, known for their earthy flavor and rich nutritional content, have long been a staple in Bulgarian cooking, often paired with meat and vegetables. This particular version, with meat and potatoes, is a hearty take on the traditional lentil soup, offering warmth and nourishment to families.
