Sausage Lentil Soup

Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe - Canadian Cuisine

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sausage 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 the savory sausage adds a delicious depth of flavor. It is a simple and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

History

Lentil soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Lentils are one of the oldest cultivated crops, dating back to ancient times. The addition of sausage to lentil soup is a more recent twist, adding a rich and savory element to the dish.

Ingredients

1 x 16 oz (454 g) package of dry lentils
1 lb (454 g) of sweet Canadian sausage
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 celery stalks, chopped
1 lb (454 g) of carrots, sliced into small pieces
6 cups of chicken broth (or water with enough bouillon cubes to season to taste)
salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and basil to taste
freshly grated parmesan cheese for garnish

How to prepare

Rinse the lentils as per the instructions on the package.
In a large soup pot, brown the sausage and drain it well.
Add the onion, garlic, and celery. Cook until the onion is tender.
Add all the other ingredients, except for the cheese.
Cook until the lentils are tender, which should take around 30 to 40 minutes.
Sprinkle with cheese before serving.

Variations

Use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
Add diced tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the bouillon cubes for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- Browning the sausage before adding the other ingredients helps to enhance the flavor of the soup.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more bouillon cubes or herbs as needed.

- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sausage Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a large soup pot to ensure there is enough room for all the ingredients to cook evenly.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

- Simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage or chorizo.

- Substitute green or brown lentils for the dry lentils if desired.

- Use any type of hard cheese for garnish if you do not have parmesan on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

Sausage Lentil Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sausage Lentil Soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh basil. Pair with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Sausage Lentil Soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the savory flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sausage Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sausage Lentil Soup contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sausage Lentil Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sausage Lentil Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Sausage Lentil Soup contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sausage Lentil Soup is a good source of iron, fiber, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (parmesan cheese) and gluten (bouillon cubes). It may also contain soy depending on the sausage used.

Summary

Sausage Lentil Soup is a nutritious and filling meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a comforting meal.

Summary

Sausage Lentil Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a bowl of Sausage Lentil Soup with your loved ones and savor the comforting and satisfying flavors.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Sausage Lentil Soup. It was a cold and rainy day, much like today, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had found at a thrift store. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a worn and tattered page that had a handwritten recipe for this hearty and comforting soup.

The recipe called for simple ingredients that I already had in my pantry – lentils, sausage, carrots, onions, and garlic. I decided to give it a try, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of the earthy lentils, the savory sausage, and the aromatic vegetables created a symphony of flavors that warmed me from the inside out.

I had always enjoyed cooking, but this recipe sparked a passion in me that I had never felt before. I began experimenting with different variations of the soup, adding herbs and spices to enhance the flavors. I shared the soup with my family and friends, and they all raved about how delicious it was.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to make it my own. I have added smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity. I have also tried using different types of sausage – spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat, and sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor.

One of my fondest memories of making this soup was when my dear friend Margaret came over for lunch. She had been feeling under the weather, and I wanted to make her something hearty and nourishing. I whipped up a pot of Sausage Lentil Soup, and as she took her first spoonful, a smile spread across her face.

"This is exactly what I needed," she said, her eyes brimming with gratitude. "It's like a warm hug in a bowl."

I felt a warm glow of satisfaction knowing that my cooking had brought comfort to my friend. That's the power of food – it has the ability to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls as well.

As the years have passed, I have continued to cook this soup for my family and friends. It has become a staple in my household, especially during the colder months when we crave something warm and comforting. My grandchildren have grown to love it too, and they always request it when they come over for a visit.

I love passing down this recipe to the next generation, knowing that they will carry on the tradition of cooking this soup with love and care. It warms my heart to see them gathered around the table, enjoying a bowl of Sausage Lentil Soup and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So here I am, standing in my kitchen once again, stirring a pot of this beloved soup. The aroma wafts through the air, filling the room with its comforting scent. I can't help but smile as I think back to that fateful day when I stumbled upon this recipe. It may have been a simple soup, but it has brought so much joy and warmth into my life.

As I ladle the soup into bowls and garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous discovery of this recipe. It has become more than just a dish – it is a labor of love, a symbol of comfort, and a reminder of the power of food to nourish both body and soul.

And so, I invite you to join me at the table, to savor a bowl of Sausage Lentil Soup and to create your own memories around this humble yet delicious dish. May it bring you as much joy and warmth as it has brought me over the years. Cheers to good food, good company, and good memories. Bon appétit!