Sausage-Lentil Soup

 A delicious, heart meal "one-pot meal!"

Lentil soup has always been a staple in our house, since I was a child.  I don't know what it was about having this warm, hearty soup that made dinner so special.  Maybe it was that loaf of homemade Italian bread we ate with it...haha!

Since "soup season" is here, I'm planning on making this very soon!  It was always one of my husband's favorite meals...just add some warm Italian bread and you have a meal fit for a king...at least that's what my wonderful husband always called it! 

Ingredients:

1/2 lb. dry lentils
2 Tsp. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 lb. bulk Italian sausage, mild or hot-your preference (or smoked ham)
1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes (optional)
2 cups beef or chicken broth (I like beef)
2 cups water
salt and pepper to taste

Sort and rinse lentils.

In a medium saucepan, heat oil.  Stir in onion, celery and garlic until tender.

In a separate pan, brown sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain.  (If you can't find bulk, buy the links and cut off the casing.  Then break apart in the frying pan.) 

Add lentils and remaining ingredients, including sausage.  Bring to a boil 

Reduce heat, cover and simmer until lentils are tender and soup gets thick.

Add more hot water or broth (chicken or beef) if necessary.

Serves 4-6


Be encouraged!
"Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is."  - Amos 5:14