Rich Lentil and Ham Soup
Warming, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Rich Lentil and Ham Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort for any occasion. Bursting with the wholesome goodness of tender lentils, savory smoked ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery, this one-pot wonder comes together seamlessly for a satisfying meal. A blend of thyme, paprika, and a touch of garlic lends deep, robust flavors, while a hint of optional lemon juice adds a refreshing pop of brightness. Ready in just over an hour, this protein-packed soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of freshness and pair with crusty bread for a truly soul-soothing dining experience. Whether you're meal prepping or serving a crowd, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium celery ribs, diced
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups smoked ham, diced
- 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 leaf bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 4 wedges lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Stir in the diced smoked ham and cook for another 2 minutes to release its flavors.
Add the rinsed lentils, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer the soup for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to preference.
Before serving, discard the bay leaf and garnish the soup with fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve hot with optional lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
209 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.4 g | 10% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g | 7% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 22 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1375 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18.8 g | 7% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.9 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.5 g | ||
| Protein | 17.8 g | 36% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 68 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 708 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
