This hearty soup combines tender lentils with savory ham for a comforting meal that’s easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together quickly in the pressure cooker without sacrificing rich, satisfying flavor.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time1 hr
Difficulty
Hard
Chef Tips
Rinse the lentils well before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
Use a ham bone or ham hock for richer flavor if you have one available.
Adjust the seasoning at the end, especially salt, since the ham can be quite salty.
Ingredients
0/13
Why This Dish Is Amazing
This soup is hearty and full of flavor, making it a perfect comfort meal. The lentils provide protein and fiber, while the ham adds a smoky, savory touch. It cooks quickly in a pressure cooker, saving you time without sacrificing taste.
Step 1
Put the ham shanks and water into your pressure cooker and heating it over medium. Once it’s hot, lock the lid in place and bring the pressure up to 15 pounds. Turn the heat down to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes. When the time’s up, release the pressure right away following your cooker’s instructions. Use a slotted spoon to take out the ham shanks and set them aside to cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones. Pour the broth into a separate bowl and save it for later.
Step 2
Heat some olive oil in the pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally until everything is soft and starting to shrink down, about 20 minutes. Then stir in the lentils, 8 cups of the reserved ham broth, thyme, and a bay leaf. Seal the lid again and bring it back up to 15 pounds of pressure. Let it cook for 6 minutes, then release the pressure immediately.
Step 3
Finally, stir in the tomatoes, shredded ham, black pepper, and a splash of vinegar. Warm everything through over low heat, then it’s ready to serve.
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people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Variations
Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper on top can brighten the flavors and add a fresh touch.
Freezing Tips
Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes nicely for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if it has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of ham instead of ham shanks?
Yes, you can use ham hocks or leftover smoked ham pieces for similar flavor.
Do I need a pressure cooker to make this soup?
While a pressure cooker speeds up cooking, you can make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop; adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I use brown or green lentils instead of red lentils?
Yes, but brown or green lentils will take longer to cook and may affect the texture slightly.
How do I know when the ham shanks are fully cooked?
After 20 minutes at 15 psi, the meat should be tender and easily shredded from the bone.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can omit the ham and use vegetable broth, but the smoky flavor will be missing.
How much vinegar should I add if I want a stronger tang?
Start with 1 teaspoon and add more gradually to taste after the soup is heated.
Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool completely before freezing and reheat gently.
What can I substitute for dried thyme if I don’t have any?
You can use Italian seasoning or a small amount of dried rosemary as a substitute.
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