1 Hour Smoky Ham And Lentil Soup Recipe

This award-winning smoky ham and lentil soup recipe is a hearty, flavorful, and slightly spicy masterpiece! Inspired by a catering chef's cafe secret, this recipe is perfect for chilly fall and winter evenings. Serve with warm, crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience. Quick on the stovetop (60 minutes) or slow and easy in your crockpot (10 hours).

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 172.3 kcal
Protein 26g
Rating 5.0 (6 Reviews)
1 Hour Smoky Ham And Lentil Soup

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for 1 Hour Smoky Ham And Lentil Soup

  • Dry Lentils
  • Smoked Ham
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium broth
  • Ham Soup Base
  • Celery
  • Onion
  • Carrot
  • Cider Vinegar
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Oregano Flakes
  • Salt
  • Ground Black Pepper
  • Tabasco Sauce
  • Liquid Smoke

How to Make 1 Hour Smoky Ham And Lentil Soup

  1. In a large stock pot, combine lentils, ham, water, and bouillon (if using). Bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
  3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
  4. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. OPTIONAL: For a creamier soup, remove about 3 cups of the soup mixture (lentils, broth, and vegetables). Puree using an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth. Return the puree to the pot and stir to combine.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread.
  8. **Crockpot Instructions:** Combine ALL ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir well before serving. (Note: You may need to add a little extra water during crockpot cooking, depending on your cooker)

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

19 g

Sugar

7g

Fat

3g

Carbs

8g