Five Star Lentil Soup
A hearty and flavorful lentil soup simmered with a ham bone, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The rich broth and tender lentils create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a savory taste of ham and vegetables with a hint of nutmeg. Ideal for those who enjoy wholesome, rustic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a soup pot and fill with water.
- Cook for 3 to 4 hours if using 3 quarts of water.
- Cool the soup.
- Pick out the bone and gristle.
- Reheat the soup with sliced hot dogs, if desired.
- Serve with French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. If you don't have a ham bone, smoked sausage can be a great substitute. Adjust the lentil quantity based on your desired thickness; less will yield a soupier consistency. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This soup is also great for using up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lentil soup with crusty French bread for a comforting meal. A side salad can also complement the flavors well. For a heartier option, consider adding sliced hot dogs when reheating. Pairing with a light red wine can enhance the overall dining experience. This dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend gathering centerpiece.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. It also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Five Star Lentil Soup contains roughly 220 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of lentils for this soup?
Yes, while brown or green lentils work best for this recipe due to their texture, you can also use red lentils. Just be aware that red lentils will cook faster and create a creamier consistency.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor without the meat.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, try adding a peeled potato during cooking. The potato will absorb some of the salt. Remember to remove it before serving. Alternatively, adding more water or broth can help balance the flavor.
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).