Ham and Lentil Soup

Slow Cooked Ham and Lentil Soup is an easy to make comforting meal. The ham bone creates a a deeply savory and smoky broth that flavors this hearty soup.

Packed with veggies and lentils, this is a healthier comfort food that you can feel good about serving. I used carrots, onion, celery, and red potatoes, but feel free to add any veggies that you have on hand in the fridge. Mushrooms also add a great depth of flavor.

Cozy Ham and Lentil Soup is perfect for using up leftover ham and the ham bone, but you can also simply buy a ham hock or smoked neck pieces for adding flavor to the broth.

This recipe makes about ten hearty servings making it perfect for meal prep for the week. There’s a bit of chopping with the veggies, but other than that, it comes together very easily. The best part is that your slow cooker does the heavy lifting making it a mostly hands off dish.

A flavorful Lentil Soup is the perfect antidote to cold weather blues. It’s thick, hearty, and the perfect bowl of comfort to serve your family and friends.

FAQS:

Do lentils need to be soaked before making soup?Nope, there is no need to presoak lentils. They will cook and become soft right in the soup broth. However, you should definitely rinse your lentils well before cooking.

What’s the difference between green and red lentils?Green lentils maintain their texture in the soup while red lentils break down and help thicken the soup.

Is lentil soup healthy?Yes. Lentils pack in protein and fiber while additional veggies add extra nutrients.

Can I freeze lentil soup?Absolutely. This soup freezes really well. I like to freeze it in one or two serving portions for easy lunches or quick weeknight dinners. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator over night, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

LENTIL SOUP INGREDIENTS:

• Vegetable stock: I like to use homemade or a low sodium version.
• Ham bone: Use your leftover ham bone or purchase a smoked ham hock or smoked neck pieces.
• Vegetables: Any mix of vegetables you like can be used. Soups are great for using up odds and ends in the fridge.
• Red lentils: These will basically disintegrate and help thicken the soup.
• Green lentils: They hold their shape well in soups.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are a must, but feel free to substitute other herbs and spices your family loves.

HOW TO PREPARE SLOW COOKED LENTIL SOUP:

• Begin by chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes.
• Add all the ingredients except the chopped ham and spinach to the slow cooker, and cook on high for 4-5 hours until the lentils and potatoes have softened. (Make sure to rinse the lentils first.)
• While the soup is cooking, chop the spinach and ham, and keep in the refrigerator until ready to add to the soup.
• Once the potatoes have softened, remove the ham bone from the soup. Add the chopped ham and spinach, and stir well to combine. Taste for salt and pepper, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Continue cooking on high for 1 more hour.
• Keep the slow cooker on low until ready to serve.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• A crusty bread, like Irish Soda Bread, is perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Optional soup toppings: parmesan cheese, sliced spinach, fresh herbs, squeeze of lime or lemon juice.

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INGREDIENT SUBSTITUTIONS:

• Vegetable stock: Any stock you have on hand can be used.
• Green lentils: Brown lentils also hold their shape well in soups.
• Red potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead.
• Carrots: Parsnips add a nice, earthy flavor.
• Spinach: Any leafy green will work well.
• Chopped ham: Cooked bacon or pancetta will also add great flavor.
• Optional add ins: Mushrooms, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, zucchini, tomatoes, etc.

RECIPE NOTES:

• High on my slow cooker is 204ºF which is a simmer just under a boil. All slow cookers are different, so cook times may vary slightly.
• I love multi-function slow cookers. They cut down on the amount of dishes to wash when you need to sauté ingredients before cooking.

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