Lentil soup with chorizo

Lentil Soup with Sausages - An explosion of flavors and comfort in every bite

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful recipe? Lentil soup with sausages is the perfect choice! This recipe combines protein-rich lentils with tasty sausages, creating a comforting meal ideal for chilly days. Lentils, a versatile and healthy ingredient, have a long history in gastronomy, consumed for thousands of years due to their nutritional values and ease of preparation. Let’s discover together how to make a delicious lentil soup with sausages!

Ingredients

- 350 g green lentils (preferably, but brown lentils can also be used)
- 1 Portuguese or Spanish sausage (chorizo)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 vegetable stock cube
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 chili pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- Pepper and salt, to taste

Step-by-step instructions

1. Start with preparing the lentils: If you have time, soak the lentils in water for 2-3 hours before starting to cook. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps with digestion.

2. Sauté the aromatic ingredients: In a large pot, add olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add the sliced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sausage pieces and chili pepper, if you choose to use it. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Add the spices and lentils: When the onion is ready, add the two bay leaves, the stock cube, drained lentils, and chopped garlic, along with the thyme sprig. Sauté all the ingredients together for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.

4. Add water and boil: Pour boiling water into the pot, making sure to cover the lentils with about 3 fingers of water. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until the lentils are tender.

5. Finish the soup: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Add pepper, salt to taste, and the chopped green onions. Cover the pot again and let the soup rest for 8-10 minutes. This pause will allow the flavors to develop and combine harmoniously.

Useful tips

- Choose quality sausages: Sausages provide an intense flavor, so choose a good type with natural ingredients.
- Customize the recipe: You can add vegetables like carrots or celery for an extra nutrient boost. Also, lentils can be replaced with beans or chickpeas, adapting the recipe to personal preferences.
- Serving: This soup is delicious served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or flavored croutons. A glass of red wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits

This lentil soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, positively impacting digestive and heart health. Lentils help maintain optimal energy levels and contribute to weight control.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned lentils? Although dried lentils are preferred for this recipe, you can use canned lentils to save time. Make sure to rinse them well before use.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Adding fresh chili pepper or chili powder will give the soup a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to personal preferences.
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, lentil soup freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for later consumption.

Possible variations

- Lentil soup with vegetables: Replace the sausages with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or pumpkin for a vegetarian version.
- Lentil soup with curry: Add a few tablespoons of curry paste to give the soup an exotic flavor.

In conclusion, lentil soup with sausages is a fantastic choice for a nutritious and comforting meal, easy to prepare and full of flavors. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and create your own version of this classic recipe. Enjoy your meal!