lentil soup with ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
lentil soup with ham recipe
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The Best lentil soup with ham recipe

I’m so excited to share this delicious lentil soup with ham recipe with you. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with nutrients. Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals, making this soup a perfect option for a quick and healthy meal.

The addition of ham adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of the lentils. I love serving this soup on a chilly fall or winter day, when the warm, comforting flavors are just what we need to cozy up with.

My kids adore helping me prepare this recipe, and they’re always eager to dig in when it’s finished. We often have leftovers for days, which is great because it gives me time to experiment with different seasonings and spices.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – I can serve it as a main course or side dish, and it’s perfect for both casual weeknight meals and special occasion gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to try or just want a reliable favorite, I highly recommend giving this lentil soup with ham a shot.

It’s sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in mine!

Lentil Soup with Ham

Lentil Soup with Ham

4.8 from 1366 votes

A hearty and comforting lentil soup made with tender green lentils, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. This one-pot meal is perfect for a cold day and comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 cups dried green lentils, rinsed
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham (about 8 ounces)
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more 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, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf.
4Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the rinsed lentils, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices.
5Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
6Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the lentils are tender but not mushy, about 25 to 30 minutes.
7Stir in the diced ham, salt, and black pepper.
8Continue to simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes to heat the ham through and meld the flavors.
9Remove the bay leaf and discard.
10Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
11Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 16g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the lentils against the side of the pot before adding the ham. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and the flavors often improve. You can substitute smoked turkey or kielbasa for the ham if desired.

Watch Video Of How Lentil Soup with Ham Works

One of the best things about this lentil soup with ham recipe is its ability to be easily reheated and served at any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a quick lunch on-the-go, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

And don’t worry about leftovers – they freeze beautifully and can be reheated whenever you need a comforting meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lentil Soup with Ham

Q: What type of lentils should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using green or brown lentils. They hold their shape well after cooking and have a slightly firmer texture that pairs well with the ham.

Q: Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover ham for this recipe! In fact, using leftover ham is one of the best ways to reduce food waste and save time in the kitchen.

Q: How do I store leftover lentil soup?

Leftover lentil soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the onions and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

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