Smoked Ham Hock and Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 2 smoked ham hocks (about 2 lbs total)
• 2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add ham hocks, lentils, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for about 1.5 hours or until lentils are tender and ham is falling off the bone.

6. Remove ham hocks from the soup. Let cool slightly, then shred the meat, discarding bones and fat.

7. Return shredded meat to the soup.

8. Stir in apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld flavors.

10. Remove bay leaves before serving.

11. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

12. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Dip your spoon into this Smoked Ham Hock and Lentil Soup and let the rich, smoky flavors warm you from the inside out! This rustic, stick-to-your-ribs soup combines the earthy goodness of lentils with the savory depth of smoked ham hocks, creating a bowl of pure comfort that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or just a way to chase away the winter blues, this soup has got you covered. The tender lentils, succulent shreds of ham, and medley of vegetables create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes in every spoonful. So grab your biggest pot, simmer up a batch of this heartwarming soup, and get ready to ladle out bowls of pure contentment – it’s like capturing the essence of a rustic farmhouse kitchen right in your own home!