Hearty & Easy Ham and Lentil Soup: Stove Top, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot Perfection
Nothing quite compares to a warm, comforting bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor, incredibly hearty, and easy to prepare. Our Ham and Lentil Soup fits this description perfectly, offering a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Whether you prefer the traditional simmer on the stove top, the convenience of a slow cooker, or the speed of an Instant Pot, this versatile recipe has you covered.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s a special magic that soup brings to our kitchens and our tables. It’s not just about warding off the chill; it’s about the aroma that fills your home, the nourishing ingredients coming together, and the simple joy of a meal that truly satisfies. This particular ham and lentil soup has become a beloved staple in my household, and for good reason.
One of my absolute favorite strategies for maintaining healthy eating habits during busy weekdays is to dedicate a little time on Monday to preparing a large batch of soup. This allows me to enjoy wholesome, homemade meals effortlessly, knowing that my fridge is stocked with a delicious option. A daily bowl of this flavorful soup not only provides a comforting warmth but also keeps me feeling full and energized all afternoon, preventing those tempting snack cravings.
The very soup currently gracing my refrigerator shelves is this incredible Ham and Lentil Soup, and I genuinely can’t get enough of it. It’s one of those recipes that instantly feels like home, bursting with savory flavors and a delightful texture. I’m incredibly fortunate that this recipe comes from my wonderful mother-in-law, who has graciously allowed me to share her culinary treasure with all of you.
This isn’t just any soup recipe; it’s a cherished family heirloom, a menu staple that has been lovingly passed down through generations. My mother-in-law learned it from her mother, and I am honored and excited to continue this tradition, ensuring it’s enjoyed by future generations as well. What makes this soup truly special is its perfect balance: it’s exceptionally flavorful, incredibly hearty and filling, and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any weeknight rotation or family gathering.
Choose Your Cooking Method: Stove Top, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot
My mother-in-law often prepares generous batches of this comforting soup when the family gathers, allowing it to gently simmer on the stove with minimal supervision. This hands-off approach gives her more time to socialize and enjoy the company of loved ones while the children play. Witnessing its ease and deliciousness, I was inspired to explore ways to integrate it into my own busy schedule, particularly wondering if my trusty Instant Pot (electric pressure cooker) could accelerate the cooking process without sacrificing flavor.
The exciting news is, absolutely! The Instant Pot transforms what is typically a 2-3 hour stove top simmer into a swift and efficient process, taking just over an hour from start to finish. This makes it an ideal option for those days when you crave homemade goodness but are short on time. For the purists who appreciate the traditional slow-simmered depth, the stove top method remains a fantastic choice. And for ultimate hands-off cooking, the slow cooker offers a wonderful alternative, allowing you to set it and forget it, returning to a perfectly cooked meal.
To ensure everyone can enjoy this fantastic recipe, I’ve meticulously included detailed instructions for all three popular cooking methods: the classic stove top, the convenient slow cooker, and the speedy Instant Pot. With such flexible options, there’s truly no reason not to try this incredible Ham and Lentil Soup. Each method yields a slightly different texture and depth of flavor, yet all result in a wonderfully satisfying meal.
The Magic of the Ham Bone and Wholesome Ingredients
One of the brilliant aspects of this recipe is its versatility, particularly in how it utilizes ham. It’s the perfect solution for transforming a leftover ham bone and any remaining cooked ham into a brand-new, equally delightful meal. The ham bone, in particular, is an absolute non-negotiable ingredient; it’s the secret weapon that infuses the soup with an unparalleled depth of smoky, savory flavor that simply cannot be replicated with just diced ham. If you don’t have a leftover ham bone, fret not! A “ham hock” from your local butcher or supermarket is an excellent substitute, providing the same rich base that elevates this soup from good to extraordinary.
Beyond the ham, the humble lentil plays a starring role. Lentils are not only incredibly economical but also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They cook down to a tender, creamy consistency that thickens the soup naturally, adding to its hearty appeal. We recommend using brown or green lentils for this recipe, as they hold their shape well during the longer cooking times. Red lentils, while delicious, tend to break down more quickly and might result in a mushier texture, though some prefer this for a thicker, purée-like soup.
The aromatic vegetables – onions, carrots, and garlic – form the flavor foundation, sautéed until softened to release their sweet and pungent notes. Tomato sauce adds a touch of acidity and richness, balancing the savory ham and earthy lentils. Seasoned with bay leaves, coarse salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika, this soup boasts a complex flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. The cumin and paprika add a subtle warmth and a hint of smokiness, complementing the ham beautifully.
Ultimately, this recipe isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about building layers of flavor that culminate in a truly memorable and satisfying dish. It’s a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients creating something truly special.
Benefits of Ham and Lentil Soup
Aside from its incredible taste and comforting nature, this ham and lentil soup offers a host of benefits. As mentioned, it’s an excellent choice for meal prepping, saving you time and ensuring you have nutritious meals ready throughout the week. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health. Combined with the protein from the ham and the vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is a well-rounded and wholesome meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.
It’s also a budget-friendly option. Lentils are inexpensive, and using a ham bone or hock allows you to get maximum flavor from a cut of meat that might otherwise be overlooked. This recipe truly embodies smart, economical cooking without compromising on taste or quality.
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Lentil Soup
- Don’t Skimp on the Ham Bone: The ham bone is crucial for developing the soup’s deep, smoky flavor. Even if you’re using leftover cooked ham, adding a ham hock will greatly enhance the broth.
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any small debris or dust. Soaking is generally not necessary for brown or green lentils.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Ham can be quite salty, so taste the soup towards the end of the cooking process before adding additional salt. You might find you need less than anticipated.
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender for a few pulses. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth or water.
- Serve with Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
This soup is ideal for making ahead and stores wonderfully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, making it perfect for your weekly meal prep.
For longer storage, this ham and lentil soup freezes exceptionally well. Divide cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator (or use your Instant Pot’s “Saute” function for frozen soup) and gently warm on the stove top or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.
How to Serve Your Ham and Lentil Soup
While this soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- Crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra savory notes.
- Freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and aroma.
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Ham and Lentil Soup
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Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 onions , diced
- 5 carrots , sliced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 meaty ham bone or ham hock
- 1 lb lentils (453 grams)
- 32 oz can tomato sauce (907 grams)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water (1.25-1.5 liters)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt , plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Approximately 2 cups cooked ham pieces
Instructions
On the stove top:
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In a large pot over medium low heat, add oil, onions and carrots. Cook till veggies are softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Add ham bone, lentils, tomato sauce, vegetable broth or water, bay leaves, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
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Bring to a boil and simmer on the stove for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until lentils are softened.
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Remove ham bone and cut off any meaty pieces and add them back in. Add additional cooked ham as desired. Taste and add more seasonings as needed.
In a slow cooker:
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In a skillet set over medium low heat, add oil, onions and carrots. Cook till veggies are softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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To a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, add onion mixture, ham bone, lentils, tomato sauce, and enough vegetable broth or water to fill slow cooker. Add bay leaves, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
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Cover with lid and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
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Remove ham bone and cut off any meaty pieces and add them back in. Add additional cooked ham as desired. Taste and add more seasonings as needed.
In a pressure cooker (Instant Pot):
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In a 6-quart or larger pressure cooker, turn Sauté function to medium. Add oil, onions and carrots. Cook till veggies are softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Add ham bone, lentils, tomato sauce, enough vegetable broth or water to reach “Fill” line, bay leaves, salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
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Cook at high pressure for 35 minutes. Use natural release or quick release (I’ve done both).
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Remove ham bone and cut off any meaty pieces and add them back in. Add additional cooked ham as desired. Taste and add more seasonings as needed.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to use up a leftover ham bone and leftover ham. However, you can also use a “ham hock” from your grocery store or butcher. Additional cooked ham can be added, per your preference, to the soup just before serving.