Lentil Soup with Potatoes and Ham
Try this Lentil Soup with Potatoes and Ham recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Lentil Soup with Potatoes and Ham recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ingredients:
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 small onions chopped
- 2 large carrots peeled and diced
- lentil soup with chunky potatoes and ham
- 4 ribs celery diced
- 1 tsp ground coriander*
- 2 cups dry lentils rinsed
- 3 cups ff/reduced sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups water (you may need to add more as soup thickens)
- 4 oz diced ham
- 1 small white russet potatoes cubed
- Carbohydrate 6.57638016915813 g
- Cholesterol 1.31541787184 mg
- Fat 0.383023387642537 g
- Fiber 3.01132973241339 g
- Protein 2.96314758152103 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0938270236492198 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (23g)
- Sodium 26.3805886082213 mg
- Sugar 3.56505043674474 g
- Trans Fat 0.0373482490853658 g
- Calories 41 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large stock pot, heat olive oil over high heat.
- Add garlic, onions, celery and carrots and sautee until slightly tender.
- Add paprika and ground coriander and continue stirring until onions become translucent.
- Add broth and lentils and let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until lentils have become tender. Stir consistently, and as soup thickens, add 1 1/2 cups of water, approximately 1/2 cup at a time.
- Once lentils are tender and soup has formed a thicker consistency, add diced ham and cubed potato.
- Simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes longer, or until potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serves about 8.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Lentil Soup with Potatoes and Ham
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" That's why I rely heavily on quick, easy, and nutritious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This lentil soup has become a staple in our house – it's hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. The best part? It's easily adaptable to whatever ingredients I have on hand, making it incredibly versatile.
I discovered this recipe several years ago while browsing a food blog (I can't remember which one, unfortunately!). I immediately knew it would be a winner. The combination of lentils, potatoes, and ham creates a wonderfully comforting and satisfying soup. The lentils provide a protein punch and a lovely texture, the potatoes add a creamy element, and the ham brings a salty, savory depth that elevates the whole dish. It's also incredibly budget-friendly, making it perfect for those nights when you're watching your spending.
What I love most about this soup is its adaptability. Sometimes I swap out the ham for bacon or even sausage, depending on what I have in the fridge. I've also experimented with different vegetables – adding spinach at the end for extra nutrients or using other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for a unique twist. The beauty of this recipe is that you can really make it your own, tailoring it to your tastes and preferences. It's a perfect example of a meal that's both delicious and convenient – two qualities I highly value in my busy life.
Beyond the Weeknight: This isn't just a weeknight warrior; it's perfect for weekend lunches or potlucks too! The flavors meld beautifully when made ahead of time, making it even tastier the next day. I often double the recipe on the weekend and store the leftovers in the fridge for quick and easy meals throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, and the flavors seem to deepen with each passing day.
Tips and Tricks for Soup Success:
- Don't underestimate the power of good broth: A flavorful broth is the foundation of a great soup. Using a high-quality beef broth will significantly enhance the overall taste.
- Rinse your lentils: Rinsing the lentils before cooking helps remove any dust or debris and can prevent the soup from becoming too cloudy.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy, so be sure to cook them just until tender.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and paprika to your liking.
- Add some greens: A handful of chopped spinach or kale added during the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and a fresh touch.
- Garnish generously: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (parsley or chives work well), or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor.
This lentil soup is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. It's a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can still find time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious, wholesome food. So, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! I guarantee it will quickly become a new family favorite.
