Delicious Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage: A Hearty Classic

Recipe Overview

If you’re seeking a warm, comforting dish that embodies the essence of home cooking, look no further than this easy Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage recipe. Originating from humble beginnings, lentil soup has transcended borders and evolved into a beloved staple across various cuisines. This particular version combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the smoky richness of sausage, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Each spoonful delivers a delightful blend of textures and flavors—below the hearty lentils are tender vegetables, and the smoked sausage contributes notes of spice and warmth. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or meal prepping for the week, this homemade Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage from scratch is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Plus, it can easily be modified to suit a range of dietary needs, making it a versatile choice for any meal. This recipe serves approximately 6, with a total preparation time of about 1 hour. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients Section

The following ingredients are necessary to create this mouthwatering soup.

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (you can use kielbasa or andouille for a spicier flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed (green or brown lentils work best)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread for serving

Ingredient Swaps: If you’re looking to make this soup vegan, simply replace the smoked sausage with vegan sausage or skip it entirely, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute lentils with quinoa for a different texture!

Equipment List

Gather the following tools to help you on your culinary journey:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Canned goods opener
• Serving ladle
• Soup bowls for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer before proceeding to the next step.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion first; cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become translucent. Then stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. The aroma of sautéed vegetables will begin to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the comforting flavors to come.
3. Add the Garlic and Sausage: Introduce the minced garlic to the pot, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced smoked sausage and sauté for about 5-7 minutes. Allow the sausage to brown slightly, enhancing the depth of flavor in the soup.
4. Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir the herbs and spices through the mixture to evenly coat the ingredients and release their essential oils, infusing your soup with vibrant flavors.
5. Introduce the Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any stuck bits—those add excellent flavor to your soup.
6. Stir in Tomatoes and Bay Leaves: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and add the bay leaves. Stir everything together to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Simmer: Upon boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and enjoy the inviting aroma that fills your home.
8. Season to Taste: Once the lentils are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. The soup should have a good balance of flavors, with the smoky sausage complementing the earthy lentils.
9. Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving the soup. Ladle generous portions into bowls and consider garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair with crusty bread for dipping!

Special Notes

This vegan Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. When reheating, add a splash of additional broth if the soup thickens too much.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you find your soup too thick after it cools, simply add a tablespoon of water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.

Variations and Customizations

This soup is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for dietary variations and enhancements:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Make sure to double-check your sausage label and broth for gluten-free certifications.
• Add Greens: Introduce chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables.
• Enhance with Herbs: Experiment with adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf for different aromatic profiles.

Nutritional Information (Optional)

While specific nutritional content may vary based on ingredients used, here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 13g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare this beautiful soup, you’ll witness the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables blending with the earthy tones of lentils and the rich hues of smoked sausage. The dish should showcase a hearty, colorful mixture that fills the bowl generously. The enticing aroma of herbs and spices will invite your family to gather around the table eagerly!

Consider including images of each major step: sautéing vegetables, adding broth to lentils, and the final product garnished and served. A video clip showing the stirring process or the final ladling of soup can also enhance engagement.

Conclusion

Now it’s your turn to bring the warmth of this delightful Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage into your home. With its rich flavors, heartiness, and versatility, this recipe is sure to satisfy both your belly and your cravings. Give this easy recipe a try and see how it transforms your mealtime. We would love to hear about your experience—leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Don’t forget to share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish.