Lentil-Ham Soup
Lentil-Ham Soup offers a hearty and comforting blend of tender lentils, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables. Its rich flavors are perfect for chilly days or a satisfying family meal, combining wholesome ingredients with simple seasoning for a delicious, nourishing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly.
- Combine the lentils and water in a 4-quart Dutch oven.
- Stir in the cubed ham, carrots, onion, bay leaf, pepper, marjoram, and garlic powder into the lentils.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the undrained tomatoes and parsley.
- Heat the soup through.
- Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or celery along with the carrots. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked tofu or omit it entirely for a plant-based option. Adjust the spices to your taste; some may enjoy adding a splash of hot sauce for heat or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness. This soup can also be blended for a smoother texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Lentil-Ham Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Luby'S Shredded Carrots for a refreshing crunch. Consider garnishing each bowl with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor. This dish also works well for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often deepen after a day, making it even more delicious. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil-Ham Soup contains roughly 633 calories, with 29g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (201% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (157% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% 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 canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Rinse and drain them before adding to the soup, and reduce the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them in the last 10 minutes of simmering to heat through without overcooking.
What type of ham works best for this soup?
Fully cooked ham, such as leftover holiday ham or deli ham, works best for this recipe. You can also use smoked ham for added flavor. If using a different type, ensure it’s fully cooked to avoid food safety issues.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. After cooking, cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop, adding liquid as needed.
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).