Slow Cooker Lentil Soup with Sausage
Do you love a warm, hearty bowl of soup on a cold winter’s day? If so, then you’re in for a treat with this Slow Cooker Lentil Soup with Sausage recipe! Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Just throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do all the work for you. No need to stand over a hot stove or spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a game-changer for busy individuals who still want a homemade meal.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Lentil Soup?
There are many reasons why slow cooker lentil soup is a great choice for a comforting meal. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables, spices, and even protein. In this recipe, we’ve included sausage for an extra burst of flavor, but feel free to experiment and make it your own.
Secondly, slow cooker lentil soup is a time-saver. Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients and assembled them in your slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. This means you can go about your day, whether it’s running errands, working, or simply relaxing, and come back to a delicious meal ready to be enjoyed.
Lastly, lentils are a nutritional powerhouse. They are packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are also low in fat and cholesterol, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Including lentils in your soup not only adds a hearty texture but also provides a nutritious boost.
How to Make Slow Cooker Lentil Soup with Sausage
Making slow cooker lentil soup with sausage is a breeze. Simply gather the following ingredients:
- Lentils
- Sausage
- Vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, onions)
- Broth (e.g., chicken, vegetable)
- Seasonings (e.g., garlic, thyme, bay leaves)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, follow these steps:
- First, rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any impurities.
- Next, brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds extra flavor to the soup.
- After browning the sausage, transfer it to your slow cooker.
- Add the rinsed lentils, chopped vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker.
- Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the soup cook for 6-8 hours or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, give the soup a final stir and serve hot.
That’s it! Your slow cooker lentil soup with sausage is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, slow cooker lentil soup with sausage freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile to the soup.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting the sausage. You can also add extra vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives such as tofu or tempeh.
4. Can I substitute the lentils with another legume?
While lentils are the star ingredient in this recipe, you can substitute them with other legumes like chickpeas or navy beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the soup. Some popular choices include diced tomatoes, spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
6. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop as well. Simply follow the same steps but cook the soup over low heat for approximately 1-2 hours or until the lentils are tender.
7. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so you’ll need to adjust the quantities accordingly. As a general rule, use one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
8. Can I add more spices to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices to enhance the flavor of the soup. Some popular choices include cumin, paprika, or red pepper flakes. Just be mindful of the quantities and adjust according to your taste preferences.
In conclusion, slow cooker lentil soup with sausage is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for those chilly days. With its easy preparation and versatile nature, it’s a recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone. So why not give it a try and savor the flavors of this hearty soup?
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup with Sausage
Ingredients
- 2 kielbasa sausages , chopped
- 2 carrots , diced
- 2 stalks celery , chopped
- 1 onion , chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups dried lentils
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups wine
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
- In the bottom of a slow cooker, mix together sausages, carrots, celery, onion, tomatoes, lentils, water, wine, oil, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to Low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the sausages are no longer pink.
- When you are ready to serve, add spinach to the slow cooker and stir. Cook for an additional 7 to 10 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
- Remove the bay leaf from the mixture.
- Ensure that each sausage weighs approximately 14 ounces.
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