Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Sweet and Smoky Curried Lentil Soup


This soup is like a big hug from the inside.  I've never been a big curry fan but after the addition of a few special and unique ingredients I'm now hooked on this wonderful Winter soup and consider it "blog worthy".  Like most dinners, I start with a basic plan and then add additional ingredients depending on how creative I'm feeling that particular evening.  *I will denote in the recipe where I decided to get creative with the ingredients and make it my own*.  My family gave it 5 stars and I think you will too.  Oh, by the way, this recipe was made in a slow cooker so there really was no hassle involved during the dinner time rush.  Priceless.

6 cups chicken broth
3 whole bay leaves (I used dry)
1 T. olive oil
*1 pound smoked turkey sausage, cut into bite size chunks*
*1 medium sweet onion, cut into bite size chunks*
2 carrots, peeled and cut into bite size chunks
*2 parsnips, peeled and cut into bite size chunks*
2 Yukon gold potatoes, cut into bite sized chunks
3 ribs celery, cut into bite sized chunks
1 large can (28 oz) stewed tomatoes
1 1/2 c. lentils, rinsed
3 T. curry powder
1 T. garlic powder
1 t. black pepper
salt to taste
1 t. ground corriander
1 t. ground cumin
*1 1/2 t. smoked paprika*
*2 T. brown sugar*

Assemble all ingredients.  In a skillet over medium high heat, brown turkey sausage lighly in oil.  Add the onions and cook an additional few minutes just to sweat the onions.  In a large slow cooker, add the carrots, parsnips, celery, potatoes and sausage/onion mixture.  Mix well and then add the additional ingredients and continue to mix until thouroughly combined.





Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickned nicely.  (Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving.)

This soup has a depth of flavor I wasn't prepared for and I believe the addition of the brown sugar is what makes this soup such a winner.  Balance is the key, and this soup is a very well balanced, healthy, easy and delicious meal.  It's a big hearty hug from my insides to yours :)  Enjoy!!!








3 comments:

  1. Yum, this looks great! I'll have to keep it bookmarked for when winter comes along. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
    Melissa

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  2. This sounds wonderful! I'd like to try it because I'm itching to make anything with parsnips. I have no idea what they taste like and I want to try them. Now I just have to find parsnips at the grocery store. :)

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  3. Oh wow, this sounds so yummy! I've been on a curry/lentil kick lately, so this is right up my alley :)

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