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Spicy Beef and Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil and Avocado – A Protein Rich Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

When it comes to healthy eating, finding the right balance between flavor and nutrition can be a bit of a challenge.

Today, we’re diving into a delightful, hearty dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also supports your weight loss goals. Introducing Spicy Beef and Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil and Avocado!

This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, featuring tender beef, vibrant tomatoes, and the fresh taste of basil and avocado. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe?

You might be wondering why we chose spicy beef and tomato soup for our weight loss journey. Well, here are a few compelling reasons:

  1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Tomatoes are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. They’re also a great source of antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain diseases. Did you know that a cup of raw tomatoes has just 32 calories?
  2. Protein Power: Beef provides an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. A diet rich in protein can also help you feel fuller longer, reducing the chances of snacking between meals.
  3. Healthy Fats: Avocado adds a creamy texture and is packed with healthy fats, which can help keep you satisfied without compromising your diet.

The Benefits of Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can do wonders for your metabolism! Studies have shown that spicy ingredients like chili peppers can increase your metabolic rate, helping you burn more calories.

In fact, eating spicy foods can boost metabolism by up to 8% for a few hours after consumption.

Recipe Overview

This Spicy Beef and Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil and Avocado is:

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need the following:

  • 1 pound of lean ground beef (or beef chunks)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 4 cups of beef broth (low sodium)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1-2 fresh red chili peppers (adjust according to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes)

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef (10 minutes)

Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add your ground beef (or beef chunks) to the pot. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula if using ground beef. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth (5 minutes)

Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Season and Simmer (10 minutes)

Add the dried oregano and ground cumin to the pot. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together. If you like it spicier, this is the time to add some crushed red pepper flakes!

Step 5: Freshen It Up (5 minutes)

After simmering, stir in the fresh basil and lime juice for a burst of freshness. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the basil to wilt and infuse its flavor into the soup.

Step 6: Serve with Avocado (5 minutes)

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with diced avocado. The creaminess of the avocado balances the spiciness of the soup beautifully.

Tips for Success

  1. Customize the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds, which contain most of the heat.
  2. Add More Veggies: You can sneak in more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
  3. Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for meal prep!

Nutritional Information

This soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 5g

Conclusion

There you have it! A fantastic, comforting bowl of Spicy Beef and Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil and Avocado that’s sure to delight your palate while keeping your weight loss goals on track. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a warm, nutritious meal that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat. Your taste buds—and your waistline—will thank you!