Hearty Lentil Soup with Ham for a Cozy Meal

This hearty Lentil Soup with Ham is a comforting, protein-packed dish perfect for chilly days. It’s easy to make and perfect for cozy nights with family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups Green or Brown lentils (rinsed)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ham bone or 2 cups smoked ham, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water and check for any debris. Optionally, soak them for 30 minutes for even cooking (not mandatory).

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add the Ham

Stir in your diced smoked ham (or ham bone). Let it cook for 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors with the veggies.

5. Add the Lentils

Pour in the lentils and stir them into the veggie and ham mixture. Combine well.

6. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, cumin (optional), salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine.

7. Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

8. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a creamier texture, take 1-2 cups of the soup and blend it using an immersion blender or regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir.

9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the goodness.

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Picture This: A steaming bowl of hearty lentil soup with tender chunks of ham, complemented by the earthy flavors of green lentils, sitting on a cozy table, ready to warm you from the inside out.

Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Lentil Soup with Ham – the perfect dish for a chilly day!