Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup

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Are you looking for a comforting and hearty soup that will warm you up on a cold winter day?

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Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup
Prep
20 min
Cook
20 min
Total
40 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. In a stock pot, bring water and chicken bouillon granules to a boil, stirring until the bouillon is dissolved.

  2. Add the ham bone to the boiling broth, then reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the lentils. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.

  3. Stir in celery, carrots, green bell pepper, onion, marjoram, and bay leaf into the broth. Continue simmering until both the lentils and vegetables become tender, which could take around 10 to 20 minutes.

  4. Turn off the heat and remove the ham bone from the soup. Cut the ham from the bone and cube it. Add the cubed ham back into the soup and discard the bone.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a comforting and hearty soup that will warm you up on a cold winter day? Look no further than Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup! This delicious and nutritious soup is packed with flavor and is the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings.

The Magic of Lentils

Imagine a bowl of soup that is both rich and comforting, yet light and healthy at the same time. That's the magic of lentils! These tiny legumes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They bring a wonderful texture and earthy flavor to any dish, including Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup.

The Star Ingredient: Ham

Ham is the star ingredient in this soup, adding a delicious smoky flavor and a hint of saltiness. It complements the lentils perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The ham also adds a meaty texture, making this soup a filling and satisfying meal.

The Simplicity of Preparation

One of the best things about Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a steaming bowl of soup ready to enjoy. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy weekend lunch. Simply gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and let the flavors meld together in a comforting harmony.

A Burst of Flavors

When you take your first spoonful of Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup, you'll be greeted with a burst of flavors. The smoky ham, the earthy lentils, and the aromatic herbs and spices all come together to create a symphony of taste. Each bite is a delightful experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Perfectly Balanced

Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup is not only delicious, but it's also a well-balanced meal. The combination of lentils and ham provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, keeping you satisfied and energized. It's a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diet without compromising on taste.

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute the ham with another type of meat?

Absolutely! While ham adds a unique flavor to the soup, you can substitute it with cooked bacon, smoked turkey, or even sausage.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup freezes beautifully. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and storing it in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to three months.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes to make the soup even heartier and more nutritious.

How long does the soup take to cook?

The soup typically takes about 1 hour to cook, but you can simmer it for longer to intensify the flavors.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add spices to customize the flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cumin, paprika, or thyme to enhance the flavor of the soup according to your taste preferences.

Can I serve this soup with a side dish?

Of course! Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup pairs well with a crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch of Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup, simply double or triple the ingredients accordingly. It's a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

In conclusion, Leslie's Ham Lentil Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With its simplicity, burst of flavors, and nutritional benefits, it's a soup that will warm both your body and soul. So, why not give it a try and experience the magic of lentils and the deliciousness of ham in every spoonful?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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