Gluten Free Mediterranean Lentil Soup from the Kitchen of BNP Coach Reem Halwani
Welcome to the world of flavors inspired by the Mediterranean, where health meets taste in the most delightful way. BNP Coach Reem Halwani has crafted a nutritious masterpiece with her Gluten-Free Mediterranean Lentil Soup. Packed with red lentils, quinoa, and savory ground meat, this soup is not just a culinary journey but a wholesome experience for your body and soul. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients, the cooking process, and the incredible health benefits that come with each spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1/2 lb ground meat (your choice)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Avocado oil or coconut oil for sautéing
- 4 cups water or bone broth
- Paprika to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why Mediterranean?
The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its emphasis on fresh, whole foods, and healthy fats. This lentil soup captures the essence of this diet, providing a balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
The Cooking Process:
1. Sauté the Onions: Begin by sautéing finely chopped onions in avocado oil or coconut oil until they become translucent. The addition of paprika at this stage adds depth and warmth to the soup.
2. Add Water or Broth: Pour four cups of water or bone broth into the pot, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
3. Cook the Lentils: Introduce the red lentils to the pot and patiently wait until they reach a tender perfection. Lentils, being rich in protein and fiber, contribute to heart health and sustained energy.
4. Incorporate Quinoa: Once the lentils are cooked, add the quinoa to the mix. This ancient grain complements the texture of the soup and offers a complete protein profile.
5. Blend to Smooth Perfection: Season the soup with salt and pepper, and then use a hand blender to achieve a velvety smooth consistency.
6. Add the Ground Meat: Sauté the ground meat separately and fold it into the soup, enhancing its protein content and infusing a savory element.
7. Garnish and Serve: Finish your culinary masterpiece with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice, elevating the flavors and bringing a burst of freshness.
The Health Benefits:
- Red Lentils: Promote heart health, aid digestion, and provide sustained energy.
- Quinoa: A complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids.
- Ground Meat: Adds protein and essential minerals for richness and flavor.
- Avocado or Coconut Oil: Healthy fats support nutrient absorption and contribute to heart health.
- Cilantro and Lemon: Fresh additions providing antioxidants and vitamin C.
Final Notes:
Feel free to adjust the consistency of your soup by adding additional broth or liquid to suit your preference. This Gluten-Free Mediterranean Lentil Soup is a culinary celebration of health and taste, aligning perfectly with the principles of the Mediterranean diet.
Mediterranean Lentil Soup from BNP Coach Reem Halwani
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1/2 lb ground meat of your choice lamb, turkey, beef,
- 1 onion finely chopped
- Avocado oil or coconut oil for sautéing
- 4 cups water or bone broth
- Paprika to taste
- Cilantro for garnish for garnish
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the onions and add the paprika to it.
- Add four cups of water or broth.
- Add the lentil and wait until it is cooked.
- Add the quinoa until it is cooked.
- When the grains are cooked add salt and pepper and use the hand blender. Mix and all smooth.
- Add the ground meat that you should sauté on the side first.
- You can add your cilantro and lemon at the end or as you serve.
