If you're on the hunt for a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul, look no further than this Smoked Turkey Leg Lentil Soup! Packed with rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this American classic is not just a meal—it's an experience that will leave you craving more. Imagine tender lentils mingling with succulent pieces of smoked turkey, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Whether you're preparing for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful. Get ready to discover the secrets to creating this delightful soup that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 smoked turkey legs
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove smoked turkey legs from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in chicken broth and add whole smoked turkey legs to the pot. Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the mixture.
- Rinse lentils under cold water and add them to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After cooking, carefully remove turkey legs from the soup. Allow them to cool slightly, then remove meat from bones, shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return shredded turkey meat to the pot and stir to incorporate. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Choose Quality Turkey Legs: Opt for high-quality smoked turkey legs for the best flavor. Look for ones that are well-smoked and have a good amount of meat on them.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Don't skip the sautéing step! Taking the time to soften the onions, carrots, and celery brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Before adding lentils to the pot, rinse them under cold water to remove any debris or dust. This simple step ensures a cleaner taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: After adding the turkey meat back into the soup, taste and adjust the seasoning. Depending on the saltiness of the smoked turkey, you may need to add more salt or pepper.
- Let It Rest: For even better flavor, let the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving can elevate the dish, adding a burst of freshness that complements the hearty soup.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
