Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery with leaves, chopped
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 2 quarts chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 pound dry lentils, rinsed
- 2 bay leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
What Makes This Dish So Tasty
This soup is warm, hearty, and full of flavor. It combines the earthiness of lentils with the savory taste of sausage, making it a comforting meal for any day. It’s also packed with protein and fiber, perfect for a nutritious dinner that feels like a treat.
Helpful Chef Tips
- Rinse the lentils well before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
- Brown the sausage thoroughly to develop a deeper flavor in the soup.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of aroma and taste.
- Brown the sausage thoroughly to develop a deeper flavor in the soup.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of aroma and taste.
Directions
Warm some oil in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook them for a couple of minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the sliced kielbasa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, garlic, lentils, and a couple of bay leaves. Bring everything up to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about two hours. Once it’s done cooking, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Give it a good stir before serving and enjoy!
Serving Tips
Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top can add a nice finishing touch and extra creaminess.
Storage Suggestions
Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.