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Sausage Lentil Soup

Sausage Lentil Soup
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Hearty and comforting Sausage Lentil Soup blends smoky sausage with earthy lentils and classic vegetables for a flavorful, filling meal perfect for cozy nights. This soup is easy to make, nutritious, and adaptable, with rich protein and fiber content that makes it satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb sausage (preferably spicy or sweet)
  • Optional vegetarian substitute: smoked tofu or mushrooms

Lentils and Legumes

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Optional greens: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (added near end)

Liquids

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1–2 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish and finishing)
  • Optional: red chili flakes or cayenne pepper (for spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the onion, carrot, and celery finely to create a flavorful base. Rinse lentils under cold water until clear.
  2. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown until crispy on edges, then remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook gently until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook an additional minute.
  4. Add Lentils, Broth, and Tomatoes: Return browned sausage to the pot. Pour in broth and add diced tomatoes. Stir in lentils and seasonings: salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Simmer Until Lentils Are Tender: Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered or partially covered, for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender and flavors meld.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in freshly chopped parsley or thyme for brightness. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm and comforting.

Notes

  • Choose quality sausage for the best flavor.
  • Don’t skip browning the sausage and veggies to add depth through caramelization.
  • Use homemade or low-sodium broth to control salt and enhance flavor.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end to brighten the soup.
  • This soup tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.
  • Vegetarian options include smoked tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based sausage.
  • For added spice, include red chili flakes or use spicy sausage.
  • Stir in greens like kale or spinach near the end for nutrition and color.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on stove; add broth or water if soup thickens too much.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage lentil soup, hearty soup, easy dinner, cozy meal, lentils, sausage recipe, gluten free soup, healthy soup

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/sausage-lentil-soup/