This classic German Lentil Soup with Frankfurters is a comforting bowl of warmth perfect for chilly evenings. The dish features tender brown lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and onions to create a rich, earthy base. Sliced frankfurters add a savory, smoky depth that complements the vegetables beautifully. A splash of cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors, balancing the richness of the meat. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The texture is hearty yet smooth, with the lentils breaking down slightly to thicken the broth naturally.
German Lentil Soup With Frankfurters
Description
This classic German Lentil Soup with Frankfurters is a comforting bowl of warmth perfect for chilly evenings. The dish features tender brown lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and onions to create a rich, earthy base. Sliced frankfurters add a savory, smoky depth that complements the vegetables beautifully. A splash of cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors, balancing the richness of the meat. It&# 226;ÂÂs a simple, satisfying meal that comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The texture is hearty yet smooth, with the lentils breaking down slightly to thicken the broth naturally.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat the salad oil in a large kettle or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onions, crushed garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot.
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Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
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Pour in the water and add the washed lentils, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
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Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer slowly for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are just tender.
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Add the sliced frankfurters to the soup.
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Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to heat the frankfurters through.
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Remove the pot from the heat.
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Discard the bay leaf.
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Stir in the cider vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 10.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.3g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 1.1g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often improve the next day.
For a vegetarian version, omit the frankfurters and add an extra cup of vegetable broth or water. You can also add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
Brown lentils hold their shape well but will soften slightly during cooking. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend half the soup before serving.
Adjust the salt to taste, especially if using pre-cooked frankfurters which may contain sodium.
The cider vinegar is crucial for balancing the earthy flavor of the lentils; do not skip it.