Lentil soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that can truly satisfy your cravings, whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold day or a nutritious dish to warm you up after a long week. Add smoked turkey to the mix, and you’ve elevated this classic into something even more flavorful and robust. The smoky richness of the turkey blends beautifully with the earthy lentils, creating a deeply satisfying, nutritious, and savory experience.
This Lentil Soup with Smoked Turkey recipe brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an excellent option for both casual weeknight dinners and impressive meals for guests. It’s easy to make, rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, and can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is something that can be pulled off with ease but will make you feel like a culinary expert.
Let’s dive into how to make this soup, break down its ingredients, and explore some tasty variations to keep things fresh!
Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey Recipe
This hearty, comforting soup combines lentils, vegetables, and smoked turkey for a soul-warming meal that’s simple to make but packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you can make in a big batch and enjoy for several days, making it perfect for meal prep. It’s filling, rich, and provides that smoky depth that takes lentil soup to the next level.
Ingredients Needed
To get started, you’ll need a few key ingredients that are easy to find and won’t break the bank. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 lb dried lentils (green, brown, or red-your choice!):
- These are the main base of the soup. Lentils are high in protein, fiber, and other nutrients, making them the perfect legume for this recipe.
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1 smoked turkey leg or smoked turkey wings (about 1.5-2 lbs):
- The turkey imparts a rich, smoky flavor to the broth, creating a deep, savory base. It also adds a healthy dose of protein.
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1 medium onion, chopped:
- The onion is going to form the aromatic foundation of the soup, adding sweetness and depth.
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2 carrots, peeled and sliced:
- Carrots add color, natural sweetness, and texture to the soup. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins and minerals.
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2 celery stalks, chopped:
- Celery provides a crunchy texture and a mild, peppery taste. It balances out the other vegetables in the soup.
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3 cloves garlic, minced:
- Garlic adds warmth and an extra layer of flavor that complements the smokiness of the turkey.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
- A warm, earthy spice that adds a subtle depth of flavor to the broth. It’s a common spice in lentil soups.
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1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
- Coriander has a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that lightens up the richness of the turkey and lentils.
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6 Cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth
- The broth forms the base of the soup and infuses the lentils and vegetables with flavor. Using low-sodium helps control the saltiness of the soup.
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1 Bay Leaf
- This subtle addition helps tie together all the ingredients by adding a faint, aromatic essence to the soup.
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Salt And Pepper To Taste
- Seasoning is key! Adjust the salt and pepper at the end of cooking to ensure the soup is perfectly seasoned.
Cooking Instructions
Making this lentil soup is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
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Prep The Ingredients
- Start by chopping the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. This will make cooking go much faster and ensure that everything cooks evenly.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water, picking out any debris or stones.
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Brown The Turkey
- In a large pot, heat a little bit of olive oil over medium heat. Place the smoked turkey leg or wings into the pot and brown them on all sides for 5-7 minutes. This step brings out the smoky flavors even more and gives the turkey a nice sear.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot with the turkey. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
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Add The Spices
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, and bay leaf. Allow the spices to toast for a minute or so to release their natural oils and flavors.
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Add The Broth And Lentils
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the lentils to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the lentils are submerged in the liquid.
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Simmer
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the turkey is cooked through. The turkey will likely fall off the bone during cooking, so feel free to shred it into the soup.
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Shred The Turkey
- Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat off the bones. Add the shredded turkey back into the soup and stir.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you prefer a more intense smoky flavor, add a little smoked paprika or extra turkey skin pieces. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why each ingredient works so well in this recipe:
- Lentils: These tiny powerhouses are high in fiber, protein, and iron. They cook relatively quickly compared to other dried beans and are an excellent base for soups because they absorb flavors so well.
- Smoked Turkey: The smoked turkey leg or wings not only adds protein, but its smoky flavor infuses the entire soup, giving it a rich, meaty depth. It’s the perfect complement to the lentils and vegetables.
- Carrots & Celery: Known as the classic “mirepoix” base for many soups and stews, these vegetables are a staple in creating a balanced, flavorful broth. They release natural sweetness as they cook, making the soup hearty and comforting.
- Garlic & Spices: Garlic enhances every dish with its bold, aromatic flavor. The cumin and coriander add warmth and an earthy complexity to the soup, while the bay leaf subtly ties everything together.
- Low-Sodium Broth: The broth serves as the liquid base for this soup. Opting for low-sodium helps control the overall saltiness of the dish, and you can always adjust the seasoning at the end.
Expert Tips
- Soak the Lentils: While it’s not necessary to soak lentils, doing so will reduce the cooking time and help them cook more evenly. If you have the time, soak them for 2-4 hours or overnight.
- Use Bone-In Turkey: The bone adds flavor to the broth, so a bone-in smoked turkey leg or wing is preferred over boneless turkey.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer for longer so the lentils break down more. For a thinner consistency, add more broth.
- Flavor Boosters: A dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can really brighten up the flavors. You can also garnish the soup with fresh parsley or cilantro for extra freshness.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ways to mix things up:
- Add Greens: Throw in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes for texture.
- Add Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes can give your soup a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that balances the richness of the turkey.
Final Words
This Lentil Soup with Smoked Turkey is one of those dishes that just gets better as it sits. The lentils continue to soak up all the flavors, and the turkey becomes more tender and flavorful as it melds with the broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any season, and it’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Whether you’re serving it to your family or preparing it for a meal prep adventure, this soup offers simplicity with a delightful depth of flavor. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy on its own or as a side to your favorite bread or salad.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey?
The main ingredients include dried lentils, smoked turkey (often smoked turkey legs or wings), onions, carrots, celery, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper. Optional ingredients might include tomatoes, potatoes, and spinach or kale for added flavor and nutrition.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey?
The cooking time can vary depending on the method used. On the stove, it typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook the lentils until tender and to allow the flavors to meld. If using a pressure cooker or slow cooker, the time can be reduced to about 30 minutes in a pressure cooker or 4 to 6 hours in a slow cooker.
Can I Use Canned Lentils Instead Of Dried Lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils as a shortcut. However, canned lentils are already cooked, so you’ll need to reduce the cooking time. Add them in during the last 10 to 15 minutes of simmering, just to heat them through and allow the flavors to combine.
Can I Substitute Smoked Turkey With Other Types Of Meat?
Yes, if smoked turkey isn’t available, you can substitute it with smoked chicken, ham hocks, or even bacon for a similar smoky flavor. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change slightly depending on the meat you choose.
Should I Soak Lentils Before Cooking Them In The Soup?
No, lentils do not require soaking like other dried beans. They can be added directly to the soup. However, it’s important to rinse them thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
How Can I Make Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey Spicier?
To make the soup spicier, you can add chopped fresh chilies (jalapeños or serranos), red pepper flakes, or hot sauce. Adjust the amount according to your preferred spice level. You can also add smoked paprika for a smoky heat.
Can I Make Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, lentil soup with smoked turkey works well in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, set it on low for 4 to 6 hours, and let the flavors develop. The lentils should be tender by the end of cooking.
What Type Of Lentils Should I Use For Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey?
Green or brown lentils are best for soups like this, as they hold their shape better during cooking. Red lentils will cook faster and break down more, creating a thicker soup, which could also be desirable depending on your preference.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a bit of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
Is Lentil Soup With Smoked Turkey Healthy?
Yes, lentil soup with smoked turkey is quite nutritious. Lentils are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, while smoked turkey adds a rich, smoky flavor with relatively low fat compared to other meats. The soup can be made even healthier by adding more vegetables or reducing the amount of salt.