Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe

Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of a comforting bowl of Sausage and Lentil Soup. This recipe brings together the earthy richness of brown lentils, the smoky allure of sausage, and a tantalizing blend of North African spices. With each spoonful, you’ll savor the creamy texture of the lentils and the depth of flavor from the sausage, all enveloped in a savory broth that’s both soothing and satisfying.

Picture your kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of garlic, harissa, and smoked paprika melding together to create a soup that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The beauty of this Sausage and Lentil Soup lies in its simplicity – just one pot is all you need to whip up this hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether enjoyed fresh off the stove or reheated for a quick and cozy lunch, this soup is sure to become a staple in your winter recipe collection.

So, gather your ingredients, let the soup simmer to perfection, and don’t forget to have some crusty bread on standby for dipping. This Sausage and Lentil Soup is a celebration of flavors and textures that will warm you from the inside out, making it a must-try recipe for those seeking a comforting and effortless meal that delivers on both taste and comfort.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and Tender Lentils: Brown lentils cook down to a creamy perfection, adding a hearty texture to the soup.
• Smoky Sausage Flavor: The smoked sausage infuses the soup with a rich and smoky depth, enhancing the overall taste.
• Warmth and Heat: Harissa seasoning brings a touch of warmth and heat, elevating the flavor profile of the dish.
• Rich and Complex: Tomato paste adds richness and complexity to the soup, creating a savory base packed with flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe Recipe

• Rich and Comforting Flavors: This soup combines tender brown lentils with smoky sausage and North African spices, creating a rich and savory bowl that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: With minimal cleanup, this soup is a breeze to make in one pot, where the lentils cook down into creamy perfection while the sausage infuses the dish with smoky depth.
• Hearty and Filling: A perfect winter favorite, this soup is hearty and filling, making it a satisfying meal option without requiring much effort.
• Versatile Ingredients: Brown lentils, smoked sausage, harissa seasoning, and fresh herbs come together to create a flavorful and comforting dish that can be easily customized to suit personal preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big pot on Sunday and enjoy it all week long; it even tastes better the next day, making it a convenient and delicious meal prep option.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve with crusty bread for soaking up every drop of flavor, and add a fresh green salad on the side for a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
• Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months, allowing you to have a comforting meal ready to reheat whenever you need a quick and flavorful option.

Ingredients for Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe

• 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped.
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika.
• 16 ounces brown lentils, dried.
• 1/4 cup olive oil.
• 1 tablespoon harissa seasoning.
• Salt and black pepper to taste.
• 1 large white onion, diced.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped.
• 6 cloves garlic, pressed.
• 12 ounces smoked kielbasa, sliced.
• 7½ cups chicken or beef stock.

Pro Tips for Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe

Pro Tip #1: For even more depth of flavor, try browning the sliced kielbasa in the pot before adding the onions and garlic. This will enhance the smoky essence of the sausage and add a delicious caramelized richness to the soup.

Pro Tip #2: To make the soup even heartier, consider adding diced carrots and celery along with the onions. This will not only boost the nutritional value of the dish but also provide extra texture and sweetness to complement the savory sausage and lentils.

Pro Tip #3: If you prefer a thicker soup consistency, you can blend a cup of the cooked soup in a blender or with an immersion blender, then stir it back into the pot. This will help to thicken the soup while still maintaining the chunky texture of the sausage and lentils.

How to Make Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Step 02

Cook sausage until it is golden brown.

Step 3: Step 03

Saute onions with salt and pepper for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine garlic and spices, cook for 1 minute.

Step 5: Step 05

Mix tomato paste in for 30 seconds.

Step 6: Step 06

Combine lentils with stock in the pot.

Step 7: Step 07

Bring to a boil, then simmer.

Step 8: Step 08

Simmer covered for 40-45 minutes.

Step 9: Step 09

Add herbs and stir before serving.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Sausage and Lentil Soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional stock as the soup may thicken in the fridge.

If you have made a large batch of the soup and would like to store it for longer, the Sausage and Lentil Soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bags. To enjoy later, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or stock as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Properly storing the Sausage and Lentil Soup will help maintain its flavors and textures for later enjoyment. Whether enjoying it fresh or as a freezer-friendly meal prep option, this hearty and comforting soup is perfect for quick and satisfying meals throughout the week.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have harissa seasoning on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper to add warmth and a touch of heat to the soup. The combination will mimic the flavors of harissa and still give the soup a nice kick.

For the smoked kielbasa, feel free to swap it out with any kind of smoked sausage you prefer. You can opt for turkey sausage for a lighter option or beef sausage for a richer flavor. The key is to choose a smoked sausage that you enjoy eating, as it will infuse the soup with its delicious smoky essence.

If you’re out of brown lentils, you can use green lentils as an alternative. Keep in mind that green lentils might retain more texture compared to brown lentils, which become creamy as they cook. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the lentils reach the desired tenderness while still holding their shape.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try ladling this hearty Sausage and Lentil Soup over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky sausage and tender lentils, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Another fun idea is to serve this flavorful soup in a bread bowl. Simply hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread, ladle in the soup, and garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Not only does it make for a delicious and cozy presentation, but the combination of the warm soup and the crusty bread bowl is sure to be a hit with your guests.

FAQs for Hearty Sausage Lentil Soup: Easy Recipe

Can I use a different type of lentil in this soup?

Brown lentils work best as they hold their shape well in the soup. Red lentils tend to break down too much and may alter the texture of the dish.

How do I know when the lentils are cooked properly?

Lentils should be tender but still hold their shape. You can test one by tasting it – it shouldn’t be crunchy when properly cooked.

Can I substitute harissa seasoning with something else?

If you can’t find harissa seasoning, you can create a similar flavor profile by using a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper in the soup.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove.

Conclusion

Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a comforting bowl of Sausage and Lentil Soup. The combination of hearty lentils, smoky sausage, and aromatic spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for chilly days. This soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or save some for later, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your winter recipe rotation.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of Sausage and Lentil Soup fill your home with warmth and coziness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead, this soup has got you covered. So grab a bowl, top it with some fresh herbs, and savor every spoonful of this delicious and nourishing Sausage and Lentil Soup. Your taste buds will thank you!