This hearty lentil soup combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage, bacon, and vegetables with tender red lentils to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Enhanced with a touch of apple vinegar and seasoned with bay leaves and black pepper, this soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare and full of robust flavors, it’s a dish that will warm you up on a chilly day. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delicious, wholesome meal.
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 50 minutes
- Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 200 g smoked sausage (7 oz)
- 150 g smoked bacon (5 oz)
- 200 g red lentils (7 oz)
- 300 g potato (10.5 oz)
- 100 g onion (3 oz)
- 100 g carrot (3 oz)
- 100 g celery stalks (3 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 liters water or broth (4 qt)
- 2 tbsp apple vinegar
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cut the bacon and sausages into small bars. Dice the potatoes and chop the onion, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic.
- Rinse the Lentils:
- Rinse the red lentils in cold water and drain well.
- Cook the Bacon and Sausages:
- Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the bacon and fry for 3 minutes until it starts to brown. Add the chopped sausages and fry for an additional minute.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pan. Cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the minced garlic and fry for 1 more minute.
- Add Potatoes and Lentils:
- Stir in the diced potatoes and rinsed lentils. Pour in 2 liters of water or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then skim off any froth that forms on the surface.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, add the bay leaves, and stir. Cover the saucepan with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season the Soup:
- After 15 minutes, add the apple vinegar, sugar, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well and cook for an additional 3 minutes over low heat.
- Let the Soup Rest:
- Turn off the heat and let the soup sit, covered, for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Serve the lentil and sausage soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
Cooking Tips
- Bacon and Sausages: Use thick-cut smoked bacon and your favorite smoked sausages for the best flavor.
- Lentils: You can substitute red lentils with yellow lentils. If using green or brown lentils, increase the cooking time as they take longer to soften.
- Broth: For a richer flavor, use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth instead of water.
- Additional Flavors: Add leeks, celery root, or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein: Lentils and smoked meats provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: Lentils are high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.
- Vitamins: The vegetables in the soup contribute a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium.
Dietary Information
- This recipe contains meat and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
- To make the dish gluten-free, ensure that the sausages and broth used are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 6 grams
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of smoked meats, lentils, and vegetables creates a rich, satisfying soup.
- Comforting: Perfect for cold days, this soup is hearty and filling.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is easy to make.
- Versatile: Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Conclusion
This hearty lentil soup with smoked sausage and bacon is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich broth, tender lentils, and savory smoked meats, it’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs, for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of lentils?
- Yes, yellow, green, or brown lentils can be used, but cooking times may vary.
- What if I don’t have smoked sausage?
- You can use other types of sausage, such as kielbasa or even a vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Is it necessary to use apple vinegar?
- Apple vinegar adds a nice tangy flavor, but you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if preferred.
- Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
- Yes, feel free to add vegetables like leeks, celery root, or even spinach for added nutrients.
- How can I make the soup spicier?
- Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a chopped hot pepper.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the vinegar, sugar, and seasoning in the last hour.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Substitute the sausage and bacon with smoked tofu or a vegetarian sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth.
- Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
- No, red lentils do not require soaking and cook quickly.
- What should I serve with this soup?
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.