Hearty Ham and Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Days

The aroma of Ham and Lentil Soup wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: hearty lentils mingling with tender ham, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. spicy Italian flavors The flavors come alive, creating an irresistible dish that beckons you to cozy up with a bowl.

Now, let’s be honest: who doesn’t love a good soup that warms both body and soul? This Ham and Lentil Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect meal for those lazy Sunday afternoons or your next family gathering. layered zucchini ricotta melts Believe me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

I still remember the first time I made Ham and Lentil Soup; my kids thought I was some sort of culinary wizard. tomato mozzarella gratin Their clean bowls were all the feedback I needed!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Dried Lentils: Opt for green or brown lentils; they hold their shape nicely during cooking. For more inspiration, check out this green beans and potatoes recipe.

• Smoked Ham Hock: This imparts a wonderful smokiness to the soup. Use one large or two smaller pieces.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; choose firm ones for better flavor.

• Celery: Celery brings crunch and depth; use fresh stalks for optimal taste.

• Onion: A medium onion works best; it becomes sweet as it cooks down.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic goodness; use three cloves for a robust flavor.

• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while enhancing the soup’s flavor.

• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves provide subtle depth; remember to remove them before serving!

• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme adds an herbal note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish; adjust to your liking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies!: Start by washing and chopping your veggies – dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. The more uniform you cut them, the better they cook.

Sauté For Flavor!: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until they become translucent and fragrant. This step builds a solid flavor base.

Add The Good Stuff!: Toss in chopped carrots, celery, and garlic into the pot. Cook everything together until soft, about five minutes—stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Add Lentils And Ham!: Stir in rinsed lentils along with your smoked ham hock. Add vegetable broth until everything is submerged. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.

Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low and let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Finish It Up!: Remove the ham hock after cooking. Shred any meat left on it back into the soup; discard any bones or fat. Season with bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste—serve hot!

This hearty Ham and Lentil Soup will not only fill your belly but also warm your heart with every spoonful! Enjoy every drop of this comfort food classic! For more inspiration, check out this hearty vegetable soup recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add lentils and stock to simmer. Follow with diced ham and vegetables for optimal flavor blending.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or spices based on what you have. A dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding water if needed to maintain consistency.

Making this ham and lentil soup reminds me of cozy evenings spent with family, where laughter mixed with hearty bites created unforgettable memories around the dinner table.

FAQ

What type of ham is best for ham and lentil soup?

Use leftover holiday ham or any smoked variety for maximum flavor impact.

Can I make ham and lentil soup vegetarian?

vegetarian Greek nachos.

Absolutely! Substitute ham with mushrooms or smoked tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long does it take to cook lentils in the soup?

Lentils typically take about 25-30 minutes to soften in the simmering broth.

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Ham and Lentil Soup

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• Author: Larissa W.
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Ham and Lentil Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that warms you from the inside out. With tender lentils and smoky ham simmered together in a savory broth, this soup is perfect for chilly days or family gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a delightful meal that keeps everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash and chop the vegetables: dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent.
3. Add carrots, celery, and garlic; cook until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in rinsed lentils and the ham hock; cover with vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Remove the ham hock; shred meat back into the soup, discarding bones and fat. Season with bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 11g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 40mg