Crock Pot Lentil and Ham Soup Recipe 🍲
Overview:
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 8 hours
🕒 Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
🥄 Servings: 6
Description:
Indulge in the hearty goodness of this Crock Pot Lentil and Ham Soup, a delightful blend of lentils, smoked ham, and a medley of vegetables simmered to perfection. Ideal for chilly days or whenever you crave a comforting meal, this recipe promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups lentils
- 1 onion
- 2 celery ribs
- 2 carrots
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 cups smoked ham, diced
- 8 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients required for this savory soup.
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain.
- Peel and chop the onion, celery ribs, and carrots.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the smoked ham into bite-sized pieces.
2. Crock Pot Assembly:
- Layering: In a large (6 qt or larger) crock pot, combine the rinsed lentils, chopped onion, celery ribs, carrots, bay leaf, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, diced smoked ham, and water.
- Seasoning: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh thyme to infuse the soup with aromatic flavors.
3. Cooking Process:
- Cover the crock pot with its lid securely.
- Cook the soup on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the lentils to become tender.
- Throughout the cooking process, the enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, building anticipation for the flavorful meal ahead.
4. Final Touch:
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig from the soup.
- Give the soup a gentle stir to incorporate any remaining flavors.
- Ladle the piping hot Crock Pot Lentil and Ham Soup into bowls, serving it alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad for a wholesome meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 265.2
- Fat: 9.3g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 52.1mg
- Sodium: 1541.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 7.2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 24.7g
Recipe Notes:
- Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, swap out vegetables, or even add more protein such as diced chicken or turkey.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer-term storage. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before enjoying.
- Variations: Experiment with different types of lentils, such as green or red lentils, for a variation in texture and flavor. Additionally, you can add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
- Accompaniments: Serve this hearty soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness and depth of flavor.
This Crock Pot Lentil and Ham Soup recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of cozy, comforting meals. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and share the love with family and friends!
