Discover the delightful fusion of flavors in our "Potage de Lentilles et Jambon à l'Indienne" — a dish that beautifully marries the heartiness of French cuisine with the vibrant spices of Indian cooking! This comforting lentil and ham soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy meal that can be on your table in just 40 minutes. Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to impress your guests, this recipe promises to warm your heart and tickle your taste buds. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Indian-French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and curry powder, stirring quickly to prevent burning and to release the aromatic spices, cooking for about 30 seconds.
- Add rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to coat them with the spice mixture, allowing them to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add diced ham to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the soup.
- Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting spices as needed.
- If desired, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some whole lentils for texture.
- Ladle into warm bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Lentils: For the best flavor and texture, opt for high-quality lentils. Green or brown lentils work well in this recipe as they hold their shape better during cooking.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder based on your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Sautéing Technique: Make sure to sauté the onions until they are golden and fragrant; this step builds the foundation of flavor for your potage.
- Broth Matters: Use a good-quality vegetable broth to enhance the overall taste of the soup. Homemade broth can elevate the dish even further!
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a creamier soup, blend a portion of the lentils with an immersion blender, but leave some whole for added texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also freshens up the flavors just before serving.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your potage with crusty bread or warm naan for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
