lentils and ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best lentils and ham recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: lentils and ham. This hearty dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe when I was pregnant with my first child, and it quickly became a go-to meal for me and my husband.

We’d make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week, reheating it as needed. As my children grew older, they began to develop their own tastes and preferences, but they always loved this recipe. Now, I love sharing it with friends and family who come over for dinner.

The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and customize to your taste. Simply cook the lentils according to package instructions, then add in diced ham, chopped veggies, and your favorite spices.

Serve hot over rice or with some crusty bread on the side – it’s a winner every time! My kids especially love when I add in some diced carrots or zucchini to give it an extra nutritional boost. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a meal that can be made in under 30 minutes?

This recipe has been a lifesaver on busy weeknights when I’m short on time but still want to feed my family something healthy and delicious.

Hearty Lentil and Ham Soup

Hearty Lentil and Ham Soup

4.9 from 1172 votes

A comforting and filling soup made with green lentils, tender ham, and aromatic vegetables. This one-pot meal is perfect for a chilly day and uses leftover ham for a delicious and economical dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups dried green lentils, rinsed
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
2 cups diced cooked ham
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers.
2Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add the rinsed lentils, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf, then increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
6The lentils should be tender but not mushy when tested.
7Remove the bay leaf from the pot and stir in the diced ham.
8Continue to cook the soup uncovered for 5 minutes to heat the ham through.
9Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
10Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
11Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 16g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot before adding the ham. You can substitute smoked turkey or kielbasa for the ham if desired.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Lentil and Ham Soup Works

When I have leftover lentils and ham, I store them in a glass container with a tight lid and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually get better overnight, so it is a great make ahead meal.

To reheat, I put the lentils in a pot over medium low heat and stir in a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the right consistency. You can also microwave individual portions in a bowl covered with a damp paper towel for about two minutes, stirring halfway through.

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings because it is easy to double and feeds a crowd without a lot of fuss. I often serve it with warm cornbread or crusty rolls for dipping, and maybe a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness.

It is also wonderful spooned over rice or egg noodles for a heartier meal. No matter how you serve it, this lentils and ham recipe is always a good idea and works for everything from casual weeknight dinners to holiday leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Lentil and Ham Soup

What type of lentils should I use for this recipe?

You can use either green or brown lentils for this recipe. Green lentils will hold their shape better after cooking, while brown lentils will become softer. Either way, they’ll both result in a delicious meal!

How do I store leftover lentils and ham?

Store leftover lentils and ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

Can I use other types of protein instead of ham?

Yes! You can substitute diced chicken or turkey for the ham if you prefer.

What vegetables can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite chopped veggies – carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, onions – you name it! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the ham in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker with the lentils and veggies.

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