why make this recipe
Ham and Lentil Soup is a wonderful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This soup combines the heartiness of lentils with the rich, savory flavors of ham. It’s a perfect choice for cold days or when you need something filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious.
how to make Ham and Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add lentils, broth, diced ham, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.
how to serve Ham and Lentil Soup
Serve Ham and Lentil Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. This soup is not only delicious on its own but also great for leftovers, making it a perfect meal for lunch or dinner.
how to store Ham and Lentil Soup
You can store Ham and Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
tips to make Ham and Lentil Soup
- Rinse the lentils well before using to remove any dirt or debris.
- Feel free to use any leftover cooked meat besides ham, such as chicken or turkey.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it before serving.
- Adjust the herbs and spices to your taste; adding a bay leaf can enhance the flavor.
variation
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just drain and rinse them, and add them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. What can I serve with Ham and Lentil Soup?
Crusty bread, a salad, or some rice make great sides for this soup.
3. Is Ham and Lentil Soup healthy?
Yes, it is quite healthy! It is high in protein and fiber, and you can make it even healthier by adding more vegetables.
Ham and Lentil Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced cooked ham Leftover ham is great for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper
- as needed tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Cooking
- Add lentils, broth, diced ham, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.