Lentil Soup with Ham

Discover the ultimate Lentil Soup with Ham recipe that’s rich, hearty, and packed with protein. Perfect for cozy dinners, this soup features tender lentils, flavorful ham, and a blend of aromatic vegetables in a savory broth. Whether made with or without a ham bone, this easy recipe delivers a comforting meal full of nutrients and deliciousness. Learn tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions to customize this one-pot favorite to your taste. Ideal for meal prep, freezing, or serving as a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Vegetables and Base:

• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Protein and Lentils:

• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed

Broths and Seasoning:

• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)

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Instructions

Lentil Soup Without a Ham Bone:

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Stir in the ham and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and add the rinsed lentils and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Lentil Soup With a Ham Bone:

1. Use an uncleaned ham bone for maximum flavor. When finished, remove the bone, shred the meat with two forks, and return it to the soup.
2. Combine 3 cups chicken broth, 1 cup beef broth, and 3 cups water in the pot.
3. Add all ingredients except the lentils. There’s no need to sauté the vegetables beforehand, as they will soften and cook in the ham bone’s fat.
4. Bring the soup to a rapid boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Simmer the soup for at least 2-3 hours. The longer it simmers, the deeper and richer the flavor becomes.
6. During the last 45 minutes of cooking, add the lentils and let them simmer gently until tender.
7. Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, return it to the soup, and serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: A comforting, protein-packed soup perfect for cold days.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Adaptable with or without a ham bone and customizable with different vegetables or seasonings.
• Nutritious: Loaded with fiber from lentils and packed with protein from ham.

Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme adds a deeper flavor compared to dried.
• Rinse Lentils: Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris.
• Cook Longer: If using a ham bone, simmer as long as possible to extract maximum flavor.
• Stir Occasionally: Prevent lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot by stirring occasionally.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken and beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham.
• Protein Alternatives: Use diced turkey, sausage, or bacon instead of ham.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra depth.
• Different Lentils: Swap brown lentils for green or red lentils; adjust cooking time as red lentils cook faster.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! Lentil soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker (except for the lentils). Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the lentils during the last 1-2 hours.

Q: What can I use instead of tomato paste?
A: You can use a small amount of ketchup or omit it if preferred, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra richness.

Enjoy a bowl of this hearty Lentil Soup with Ham for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal perfect for any occasion!