Warm up with a bowl of our Hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup. This comforting dish combines savory sausage, nutritious lentils, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home, providing both nourishment and satisfaction with every spoonful.
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Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
Ingredients
- 250g (9 oz) Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 cup (200g) dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Lentils and Broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Combine and Season: Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor. If you prefer a spicy kick, opt for hot Italian sausage.
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris and reduce cooking time.
- This soup can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of lentil? Yes, you can use brown or red lentils, but adjust the cooking time as red lentils cook faster.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months.
- Is there a vegetarian option? Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can add more vegetables or a plant-based sausage alternative for added protein.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! Spinach, kale, or bell peppers would make great additions to this soup.
Cozy up with a bowl of our Hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup, a perfect blend of savory sausage, tender lentils, and flavorful vegetables. Whether for a family dinner or a meal prep option, this soup delivers both taste and nutrition. Share the warmth and comfort with your loved ones and enjoy the rich flavors of this satisfying dish.