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Lentil Soup with Ham

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Lentil Soup with Ham

Are you craving a soul-warming dish that combines protein-packed lentils with savory ham in a single, magical bowl? Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Lentil Soup with Ham is not just a recipe; it's a cozy embrace on a chilly day, packed with nutrition, flavor, and pure comfort that will have your family begging for seconds.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  2. 1 cup diced ham
  3. 1 onion, chopped
  4. 2 carrots, diced
  5. 2 celery stalks, diced
  6. 4 cups vegetable broth
  7. 1 teaspoon thyme
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare all ingredients by thoroughly rinsing the lentils, dicing the ham into small cubes, and finely chopping the onion, carrots, and celery stalks.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and the onions turn translucent.
  3. Add the diced ham to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to release its flavors and slightly brown.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Check the lentils for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  7. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
  8. Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
  9. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Tips

  1. Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and reduce potential digestive discomfort.
  2. Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
  3. Don't rush the sautéing process - letting vegetables soften slowly develops deeper flavors.
  4. For extra richness, consider using ham bone or smoked ham for more intense taste.
  5. If soup becomes too thick while cooking, add a little more broth or water to achieve desired consistency.
  6. Fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the final presentation and add a bright, fresh note.
  7. This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250kcal

Carbohydrates: 35g

Protein: 18g

Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 20mg

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