Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage: Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Warm up from the inside out with this hearty and budget-friendly lentil soup, infused with the smoky richness of savory sausage. This comforting bowl boasts earthy lentil flavors complemented by a delectable smokiness, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal perfect for a chilly evening. Simple to prepare and brimming with wholesome goodness, it's the ideal weeknight dinner to please the whole family. The combination of lentils and smoked sausage creates a surprisingly rich and flavorful soup that's both hearty and affordable.
This Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage is a fantastic example of a delicious and economical meal. Lentils are an incredibly affordable source of protein and fiber, while the smoked sausage adds a depth of flavor that elevates the soup beyond the ordinary. It's a recipe that's both satisfying and budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The smoky flavor of the sausage complements the earthy lentils beautifully, creating a well-balanced and comforting soup. It's a versatile recipe that's easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, making it a practical and delicious choice for any occasion. The hearty nature of this soup makes it a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
Budget-Friendly Comfort: Simple, Satisfying, and Wholesome
This recipe proves that delicious and comforting meals don't have to break the bank. The Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage is a perfect example of how simple, affordable ingredients can be transformed into a hearty and flavorful meal. The lentils provide a good source of protein and fiber, while the smoked sausage adds a rich and savory depth of flavor. It's a recipe that's both economical and satisfying, making it a great choice for families on a budget. It’s a dish that’s both healthy and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal weeknight meal solution.
Recipe: Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
6-8 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 ounces (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup (200g) brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce / 400g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables and Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly browned.
- Add Lentils and Broth: Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley (optional).
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Use any type of smoked sausage you like.
- Add other vegetables, such as potatoes, kale, or spinach.
- Use different types of lentils; red lentils will break down and thicken the soup.
- Add a bay leaf while simmering for added flavor (remove before serving).
- Puree some of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Approximately 300 calories, 20g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 10g fat. (This is an estimate).
Serving Suggestion:
Serve hot with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
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This Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Sausage is a delicious and affordable meal perfect for chilly evenings. Try this recipe and share your culinary creations with us! Share your photos on social media using #lentilsoup. For more delicious and inspiring recipes, visit our website: https://flavortrailrecipes.blogspot.com/