Dijon Ham And Lentil Soup
A hearty and flavorful ham and lentil soup with a tang of Dijon mustard, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for lunch or dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients except the mustard.
- Heat to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or celery to enhance texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. If you don't have Dijon mustard, spicy brown mustard can be a suitable substitute. Remember to rinse your lentils to remove any debris before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Dijon Ham and Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Onion-Potato Soup for a comforting dinner. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. A side of cornbread complements the soup wonderfully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dijon Ham And Lentil Soup contains roughly 694 calories, with 25g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (244% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and iron (102% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 831mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of lentils in this recipe?
Yes, you can use various lentils like brown or red lentils. However, cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and might break down more, resulting in a creamier soup, while brown lentils hold their shape better.
Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly while maintaining great taste.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the chicken broth and mustard are gluten-free. Always check the labels on your ingredients to avoid any hidden gluten sources.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).