Introduction

Discover a comforting and hearty dish that perfectly combines lentils and beef in a tasty soup made easy with a slow cooker. This recipe not only nurtures the body but also warms the soul, making it an ideal meal for colder days. Rich in protein and fiber, the lentils add nutritious value while the beef lends a savory depth of flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Lentilles vertes – 200 g
– Viande de boeuf coupée en dés – 300 g
– Oignon – 1, haché finement
– Carottes – 2, coupées en dés
– Céleri – 1 branche, coupée en dés
– Ail – 2 gousses, émincées
– Bouillon de boeuf – 1 litre
– Tomates concassées – 400 g
– Thym – 1 cuillère à café
– Laurier – 1 feuille
– Sel – au goût
– Poivre – au goût
– Huile d’olive – 2 cuillères à soupe

Prep Time

Preparation time for this soup is approximately 15 minutes. This time includes chopping the vegetables and preparing the beef, making it a quick and easy meal option for busy days.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is about 6 to 8 hours on low heat in the slow cooker. In total, you can expect the entire process to take around 6 hours and 15 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings, perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the vegetables: dice 1 onion, chop 2 carrots, and cut 2 stalks of celery into small pieces. Rinse and drain 1 cup of lentils thoroughly.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown 500 grams of ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned meat into a slow cooker. Add the prepared vegetables, lentils, along with 4 cups of beef broth, 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs such as thyme or bay leaves.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

Set the slow cooker to low heat and let everything cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Once cooking is complete, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs at this stage.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Note 2: Variations

Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers, or by using different types of meat like turkey or sausage.

Note 3: Lentil Cooking Tip

Make sure to rinse lentils before adding them to the dish to remove any debris or grit. This helps in ensuring a clean and flavorful soup.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking involves using a low heat over an extended period to tenderize meat and meld flavors. This method is perfect for soups and stews, making them rich and hearty.

Layering Flavors

Enhancing a dish’s taste often involves layering flavors by cooking aromatics like onions and garlic first, allowing them to caramelize before adding other ingredients.

Using Dried Lentils

Dried lentils don’t require soaking like some legumes, making them a convenient choice. They cook down to create a creamy texture in soups.

Cooking Beef Properly

Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is essential. This process develops a deep flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Seasoning at the Right Time

Timing is crucial when it comes to seasoning. Adding most spices early in the cooking process allows their flavors to infuse fully, while fresh herbs should be added at the end for a vibrant finish.

Thickening Soups

To achieve a thicker consistency in soups, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or add starches like potatoes or cornstarch.

Freezing Tips

When freezing soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion and label the containers with the date.

FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones, making preparation quicker and easier.

How long can I freeze the soup?

The soup can be frozen for up to three months for optimal taste and quality.

Can I adjust the spice levels?

Absolutely! Feel free to modify the spice levels according to your personal preference by adding more or less chili or spices.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before slow cooking?

While not strictly necessary, browning the beef adds depth of flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the finished soup.

What types of lentils work best for this recipe?

Brown or green lentils are generally preferred for soups due to their meaty texture and ability to hold their shape during cooking.

Conclusion

The lentil and beef soup made in a slow cooker is not only hearty and nutritious but also convenient for meal prep and freezing. Its rich flavors develop beautifully during the slow cooking process, making it an ideal dish for cozy evenings or batch cooking for the week ahead.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Lentil Soup

Combine various seasonal vegetables with lentils for a hearty, nutritious twist on the classic lentil soup.

Beef Stew with Barley

Use the slow cooker to make a comforting beef stew, adding barley for extra texture and flavor.

Lentil Curry

Create a fragrant lentil curry by incorporating coconut milk and your favorite spices for a delicious plant-based option.

Slow Cooker Chili

Make a hearty chili by mixing ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for chilly nights.

Lentil Salad

Prepare a refreshing lentil salad with diced vegetables, herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette for a light meal option.

Split Pea and Ham Soup

Try a split pea and ham soup for a different take on legumes, offering a rich and smoky flavor profile.