Lentil soup

A bold and spicy soup with hot Portuguese sausage and healthy lentils.

Lentils are powerful little legumes. They are packed with protein and fiber while being relatively low in calories. They are very versatile too. Lentils make great curries, soups, stew, and salads. Another great thing about lentils is that they are quick to cook compared to other legumes like beans and don't require soaking (although I've read that soaking them overnight helps make their nutrients more digestible...I usually don't plan ahead enough to do that, though).

Lentils are powerful little legumes [Tweet this]

Lentil Soup

Servings: 2-4

Cooking time: 45-60 minutes

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 small carrot. diced small
2 stalks celery, diced small
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 jalapeno, diced
1 spicy sausage (I used hot Portuguese sausage), sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup lentils (I think I used green lentils)
1 can of diced tomatoes, drained
3 cups water
1 tsp chicken bullion
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1 Tbsp paprika
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large stock pot, over medium heat, cook the vegetables in oil until tender. Add the sausage and continue cooking until it curls then add the garlic and lentils.

Stir and continue cooking until garlic is fragrant then add the tomatoes, water, and bullion.

Add the spices and bring to a boil.

Lower the temperature and simmer, over low heat, for about 30 minutes or until lentils are tender. Add more water or chicken broth if needed. Taste for seasoning and adjust.

Makes 2-4 servings.

Enjoy.