Classic French Lentil Soup
A warm, cozy yet healthy-ish meal is what we often yearn for during the colder seasons – and this French Lentil Soup is just that. Made with heaps of lentils, carrots, celery, ham and spices for good measure, this soup is a simple recipe that delivers big flavors. It’s hearty, filling and with a texture that is both creamy and chunky. This is a delicious staple for a weekday dinner to cozy up to.
As its name suggests, a traditional French Lentil Soup is made with Puy Lentils commonly known as “French Lentils”. These slate green lentils grown in Le Puy, in the Auvergne Central region of France, are protected under an AOC label (Appélation d’origine controlée), testifying to their authenticity.
French lentils have a distinct peppery taste and I love how that they hold their shape very well once cooked. They are very often used in soups, but also make a great side for meat or fish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp (30ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 100g ham, cubed
- 1 medium onion, peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced (keep leaves for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 can [[28-fld oz/796ml] diced tomatoes
- 1 ½ cup (288g) French green lentils (or brown lentils)
- 4 cups (945ml) vegetable broth
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
60 minutes
Total Time:
80 minutes
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