ham and lentil soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best ham and lentil soup recipe

I have been making this ham and lentil soup for years and it is always a hit with my family. My kids love the hearty flavor and I love that I can use up leftover ham from a holiday dinner. It is a simple one pot meal that is perfect for a cold weeknight and it packs a lot of nutrition with protein and fiber from the lentils. This soup is filling without being heavy and it is a great way to get everyone around the table.

Ham and Lentil Soup

4.7 from 1257 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with leftover ham, green lentils, and vegetables. This one pot meal is easy to prepare and perfect for using up holiday ham.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Soup Base

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
6 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 1/2 cups green lentils, rinsed
2 cups diced cooked ham

Seasoning

Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2Add garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3Pour in chicken broth and add lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes.
4Stir in diced ham and cook for another 10 minutes until lentils are tender.
5Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 15g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

You can use brown or green lentils. Red lentils will cook faster and make the soup thicker. For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and use vegetable broth.

Watch Video Of How Ham and Lentil Soup Works

This ham and lentil soup is always a good idea for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and leaves everyone feeling warm and satisfied. I hope you give it a try and it becomes a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Lentil Soup

1. Can I use a different type of lentil?

Yes, you can use brown or green lentils for this soup. Red lentils will break down more and create a thicker soup. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little broth or water when reheating.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I use instead of ham?

You can use diced cooked bacon, smoked sausage, or leftover turkey. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like diced potatoes or zucchini.

5. How can I make this soup less salty?

Use low sodium chicken broth and rinse the lentils before cooking. Also, taste the soup before adding any extra salt, as ham can be quite salty on its own.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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