This recipe elevates the humble lentil soup to new heights with the addition of savory sausage, creating a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a chilly evening. We'll explore variations, answer common questions, and ensure you create a delicious bowl of soup that will become a family favorite.
What Kind of Sausage Works Best in Lentil Soup?
The best sausage for lentil soup depends on your preference, but Italian sausage (sweet or hot), chorizo, and andouille all provide delicious depth of flavor. Avoid overly smoky sausages, as they can overpower the delicate lentil flavor. A good quality sausage, even if it's a little more expensive, will make a noticeable difference in the final taste. Consider using a sausage that's already seasoned, as it will minimize the amount of additional seasoning needed for the soup.
Can I Use Leftover Cooked Sausage in Lentil Soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked sausage is a fantastic way to save time and reduce food waste. Simply chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This prevents the sausage from overcooking and becoming tough.
How to Make the Best Lentil Soup with Sausage
This recipe uses brown or green lentils, but you can experiment with other varieties. Red lentils will cook faster and create a smoother soup, while brown or green lentils will hold their shape better.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Lentils and Broth: Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
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Combine and Season: Stir in the cooked sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
What to Serve with Lentil Soup with Sausage
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Variations on Lentil Soup with Sausage
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Heartier: Add chopped potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with mushrooms or crumbled vegetarian sausage.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy!
