Harvest Moon Soup: A Cozy, Nourishing Bowl

A rich and warming bowl of comfort, filled with tender beef and earthy lentils, that perfectly captures the cozy essence of a cool autumn evening.

As the autumn air grows crisp and the golden light of the harvest moon begins to fill the sky, casting long, soft shadows, there is a primal pull to gather, to nourish, and to find comfort. This isn't just a recipe; it's an invitation to savor the season's embrace. With each steaming bowl of this hearty soup, you'll feel the gentle warmth spread from within, a feeling as welcoming as a glowing lantern on a cool evening. This blend of earthy root vegetables, tender beef, and nourishing lentils, all simmered with a constellation of warm, aromatic spices, truly captures the very essence of autumn's cozy spirit.

A cozy scene with a bowl of hot Harvest Moon Soup containing vegetables and pieces of meat, steam rising from it, set on a wooden table alongside a vintage lantern, pumpkin, and scattered herbs and spices in a warm, autumn-themed kitchen.

But this isn't just a comforting meal for the soul; it's a vibrant tapestry of well-being. Each spoonful delivers a wealth of plant-based protein and dietary fiber from the wholesome lentils—essential for a happy gut, sustained energy, and that satisfying feeling of fullness. The lean London broil offers high-quality protein, vital iron, and a boost of B vitamins, fueling your body for the crisp days ahead. You'll also find a vibrant array of Vitamins A and C generously provided by the sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers, diligently working to bolster your immune system and keep your skin glowing. Even the humble yet mighty onions, garlic, and rich spices like turmeric, cumin, and the warming touch of smoked paprika contribute powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, nurturing your body from the inside out. This Harvest Moon Soup is more than just ingredients; it's a promise of warmth, health, and connection, ready to welcome you home and nourish every part of you.

The Recipe Card

Yields: 6-8 servings | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 pound London broil, cubed into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 1 large green bell pepper, chopped

  • 1 large red bell pepper, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

  • 6-8 cups beef or vegetable broth

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed London broil and sear on all sides until deeply browned. Remove the beef and set it aside, leaving the remaining oil in the pot.

  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, celery, and both bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they have softened and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.

  3. Bloom the Spices: Stir in the cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to release their full aroma.

  4. Simmer: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the diced carrots, sweet potato, and rinsed lentils. Pour in 6 cups of broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.

  5. Finish Cooking: Cook uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the vegetables are soft. Add more broth as needed to reach your desired consistency.

  6. Season and Serve: Season the soup generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Illustration of freshly harvested carrots in soil with a large full moon in the night sky and rolling hills in the background.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)

  • Calories: ~350-400

  • Protein: ~25-30g

  • Fiber: ~10-15g

  • Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A, C, and K

Notes & Variations:

  • Storage: This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and is even more flavorful the next day.

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth. For added protein, you can increase the amount of lentils or add a can of chickpeas.

  • Spice Level: For more heat, add an extra pinch of chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper.