Lentil and Ham Soup

By lovemygolden

I used chicken broth in place of the water, for a richer flavor, but that is up to you. You could also substitute diced ham for the ham steak.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 turnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 boneless ham steak (about 3/4 pound), cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 2 (15 .5-ounce) cans lentils (do not drain)
• 1/2 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

Details

Preparation time 20mins
Cooking time 40mins

Preparation

Step 1

Heat 3 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the celery, carrots, turnips and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start browning, about 8 minutes. Add the flour and thyme; cook, stirring, until the flour is incorporated, about 2 minutes. Stir in 4 cups hot water until smooth.

Add the ham and the lentils with their liquid. Increase the heat to medium high and bring just to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low so the soup is gently simmering. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly and the lentils are creamy, about 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the baguette cubes; sprinkle with the parsley and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until lightly toasted, about 7 minutes. Serve the soup topped with the croutons.

Photograph by Christopher Testani, Recipe courtesy of Food Network Magazine

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/lentil-and-ham-soup.html?oc=linkback