This comforting Lentil Soup is a classic example of rustic, home-style cooking that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The earthy sweetness of dried lentils pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky depth of a ham hock, creating a broth that is both hearty and satisfying. Aromatics like onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf infuse the soup with warm, herbal notes that elevate the simple ingredients. It’s the perfect meal for chilly evenings or a convenient lunch option. The addition of mixed vegetables at the end provides a pop of color and extra nutrients. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, cozy dining experience.
Lentil Soup
Description
This comforting Lentil Soup is a classic example of rustic, home-style cooking that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The earthy sweetness of dried lentils pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky depth of a ham hock, creating a broth that is both hearty and satisfying. Aromatics like onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf infuse the soup with warm, herbal notes that elevate the simple ingredients. It&# 226;ÂÂs the perfect meal for chilly evenings or a convenient lunch option. The addition of mixed vegetables at the end provides a pop of color and extra nutrients. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, cozy dining experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat oil in a large stock pot over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 1 minute until slightly softened.
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Add chicken broth, dried lentils, smoked ham hock, bay leaf, thyme, ground pepper, and garlic clove to the pot.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
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Simmer gently until the lentils are tender, approximately 30-40 minutes.
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Stir in the can of mixed vegetables and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
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Remove ham hock and bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 744.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34.7g54%
- Saturated Fat 8.4g43%
- Cholesterol 190.0mg64%
- Sodium 497.9mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 35.0g12%
- Dietary Fiber 11.8g48%
- Sugars 3.2g
- Protein 67.8g136%
* 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
Remove any large bones from the ham hock before serving. You can shred any meat off the bone and return it to the soup for extra heartiness.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham hock. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken as it cools; add a splash of water or broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
Red or green lentils work best for this soup as they hold their shape well during simmering. Brown lentils are also a good alternative.
