GREEN LENTIL “GUMBO” SOUP

Green Lentil “Gumbo” Soup is a wholesome and hearty dish that reimagines the flavors of traditional gumbo with the added nutritional benefits of green lentils. This soup brings together the rich, smoky taste of sausage with the earthy flavor of lentils, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season. The combination of vegetables, spices, and lentils results in a thick, flavorful broth that’s both filling and nutritious. Ideal for those looking for a twist on a classic Southern dish, this soup is easy to prepare and sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound smoked sausage or Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)
• Cooked rice for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the lentils: Stir in the green lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), and the reserved sausage. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Add greens (optional): If using kale or spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the greens to wilt.
5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Serve hot, optionally over cooked rice, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Green Lentil “Gumbo” Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the best of Southern cooking with the health benefits of lentils. It’s perfect for a cozy meal that’s both hearty and satisfying, with just the right amount of spice.