Hearty Lentil and Ham Harmony
Warm your soul with this Hearty Lentil and Ham Harmony soup, a perfect blend of smoky ham, nutritious lentils, and vibrant vegetables. With every spoonful, savor the richness of flavors mingling together, making it an ideal comfort food for chilly evenings. Packed with protein and fiber, this delightful dish is both satisfying and nourishing, sure to please the whole family.
ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups diced ham (cooked)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
steps
- 1.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- 2.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).
- 3.
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- 4.
Add the rinsed lentils and chicken broth to the pot, bringing to a boil.
- 5.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- 6.
Stir in the diced ham and spinach (if using), heating through for another 5 minutes.
- 7.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in apple cider vinegar for a hint of brightness, if desired.
- 8.
Remove bay leaf before serving, ladle into bowls, and enjoy!