Linsensuppe
Linsensuppe Recipe - German Lentil Soup with Ham and Vegetables
Introduction
Linsensuppe, or German Lentil Soup, is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, and is flavored with a variety of herbs and spices for a delicious and satisfying meal.
History
Linsensuppe has been a popular dish in Germany for centuries, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. Lentils have long been a staple in German cuisine, as they are a nutritious and affordable ingredient that can be easily grown in the region's climate.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz (454 g)) package of dried lentils
- 3 qt (2.84 liter) of chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp of worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 tsp of garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp of grated nutmeg
- 5 drops of tabasco sauce
- 0.25 tsp of caraway seeds
- 0.5 tsp of celery salt
- 0.5 tsp of ground black pepper
- 1 cup of chopped carrots
- 1 cup of chopped onions
- 1 cup of chopped celery
- 1 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
- 0.5 lb (227 g) of diced ham
- croutons
How to prepare
- Rinse and drain the lentils, then place them in a soup pot.
- Add the stock, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, nutmeg, chili sauce, caraway seeds, and celery salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Add water as needed, up to 2 qt, to maintain a soupy consistency.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with croutons.
Variations
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Use smoked sausage or bacon instead of ham for a different flavor profile.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to rinse and drain the lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences - you can add more or less of the spices listed in the recipe.
- For a vegetarian version of this soup, simply omit the diced ham and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Serving Suggestions
Linsensuppe can be served as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.
Cooking Techniques
Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
- Substitute ground cumin for caraway seeds if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
Linsensuppe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish each bowl of Linsensuppe with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Linsensuppe with a crisp green salad and a glass of Riesling or Pilsner beer for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Linsensuppe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Linsensuppe contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Linsensuppe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Linsensuppe contains approximately 5 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Linsensuppe contains approximately 15 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Linsensuppe is a good source of iron, potassium, and vitamin A.
Alergens
This recipe contains gluten from the Worcestershire sauce and may contain allergens from the chicken stock and ham.
Summary
Linsensuppe is a nutritious and filling soup that is high in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for a meal.
Summary
Linsensuppe is a classic German Lentil Soup that is hearty, flavorful, and nutritious. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a bowl of Linsensuppe on a chilly day for a satisfying and comforting meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. Linsensuppe, a traditional German lentil soup, was a dish that I had never tried before. I came across the recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my grandmother. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost taste the savory broth and hearty lentils.
I remember my grandmother telling me stories about her time living in Germany and the delicious meals she would enjoy there. She had a talent for recreating recipes from her travels, and I always admired her ability to bring the flavors of different cultures into our home.
I decided to give the Linsensuppe recipe a try one chilly autumn afternoon. I gathered all the ingredients - lentils, carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and chicken broth - and began to chop and sauté, following the instructions carefully.
As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma of the herbs and vegetables filled the kitchen. I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When it was finally ready, I ladled myself a bowl and took my first spoonful. The warmth of the broth, the tender lentils, and the medley of flavors was like a hug in a bowl. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.
Over the years, I have perfected my own version of Linsensuppe. I have added my own twist by incorporating smoked sausage, kale, and a splash of vinegar for a touch of acidity. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that first autumn day when I discovered the magic of this comforting soup.
As I sit in my cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of simmering Linsensuppe, I can't help but reflect on all the recipes that have been passed down to me over the years. Each one holds a story, a memory, a connection to someone or someplace that has touched my life.
I remember the time I learned to make pasta from my Italian neighbor, Maria. She showed me how to roll out the dough and shape it into delicate strands, just like her own nonna had taught her. The aroma of tomatoes and garlic that wafted from her kitchen on pasta night is a memory that will always stay with me.
Or the time I spent a summer in the south of France, where I learned to make ratatouille from a local chef. The vibrant colors of the vegetables, the aromatic herbs, and the rich olive oil all came together to create a dish that was both simple and exquisite.
And then there was the Christmas I spent in Sweden, where I learned to make traditional gingerbread cookies from my host family. The smell of cinnamon and cloves that filled the air as we rolled out the dough and cut out festive shapes is a memory that warms my heart to this day.
Each recipe I have learned, whether from a cookbook, a friend, or a stranger, has added a new layer to my culinary repertoire. They have taught me about different cultures, traditions, and flavors, and have allowed me to create a tapestry of dishes that reflect the diverse world we live in.
As I ladle myself a bowl of steaming Linsensuppe, I am grateful for the journey that has brought me to this moment. The recipes I have collected along the way are not just instructions for preparing food; they are windows into the past, bridges to new experiences, and threads that connect me to the people and places that have shaped me.
With each bite of soup, I savor the flavors and the memories that come with it. And as I set my spoon down, I know that there are still countless recipes waiting to be discovered, stories waiting to be shared, and delicious meals waiting to be enjoyed. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body; it is about feeding the soul. And with each dish I create, I am reminded of the joy and the connection that food can bring.
Categories
| Carrot Recipes | Celery Recipes | German Recipes | German Soups | Ham Recipes | Lentil Soup Recipes |