Follow these steps to make your Beef Sausage and Lentil Soup:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Slice the beef sausage into bite-sized pieces.
   • Rinse and drain the lentils.
   • Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots and celery.
   • Chop the red bell pepper and set all ingredients aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced beef sausage and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper.
   • Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
4. Add the Lentils and Spices:
   • Stir in the rinsed lentils, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the cooked beef sausage to the pot.
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and bay leaves.
   • Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Soup:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.