Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This lentil soup recipe with ham bone is the perfect answer. It’s a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly meal that’s surprisingly quick to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to processed meals. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen. Prepare for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1 ham bone (about 1-1.5 lbs), preferably with some meat still attached
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 8 cups water or low-sodium broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This simple step builds a wonderful foundation of flavor for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Lentils and Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This releases the aromatic oils and adds depth to your soup's flavor profile.
Step 3: Incorporate the Ham Bone and Liquid
Place the rinsed lentils and ham bone into the pot. Pour in the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful your soup will become.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Once the lentils are cooked through, remove the ham bone from the pot. Remove as much meat as possible from the bone and shred it. Discard the bone. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the shredded ham. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of water and broth. Chicken broth also works wonderfully.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream before serving.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This hearty lentil soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. It's also a great source of iron and other essential nutrients. This recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and good for you. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe – perfect for any occasion. This recipe demonstrates the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking, offering a healthier and more flavorful alternative to processed foods and takeout. It’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into your healthy meals plan. Discover the best recipes with this simple yet satisfying dish.