Go Back

Ham Lentil Soup

A hearty Ham Lentil Soup made with tender lentils and savory ham, perfect for chilly days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced ham
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Soup ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  4. Mix in the rinsed lentils, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
  5. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Stir in the diced ham and bay leaf.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-35 minutes.
  8. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For an even heartier soup, add diced potatoes or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking.