If you’re searching for a heartwarming bowl of comfort that feels like a big, delicious hug, then this Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, wholesome soup bursting with the natural sweetness of carrots and the earthy richness of lentils, all enhanced by the smoky depth from tender ham hocks. Every spoonful combines layers of flavor and texture, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings or anytime you want a nourishing meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.

Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the soup’s signature smoky richness, adding a burst of color and sweetness, or infusing layers of herbal notes. These staples come together to create more than just a soup — they create a comforting experience.

Olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing and enriches the flavor subtly.
Diced onion: Provides a savory sweetness that forms the soup’s aromatic foundation.
Diced celery: Contributes a mild crunch and fresh, green notes to balance the dish.
Diced carrots: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color, complementing the lentils perfectly.
Garlic cloves: Delivers a punch of fragrant depth that enhances the savory layers.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best flavors.
Undrained diced tomatoes: Introduces a luscious, tangy undertone that brightens the soup.
Bay leaves: Infuse subtle herbal complexity with hints of pine and clove.
Fresh thyme sprigs: Or Herbes de Provence for a delicate, aromatic touch.
Chicken broth: The hearty liquid base that marries all ingredients together with warmth.
Smoked ham hocks: The star ingredient lending a rich smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth meat.
Lentils: Brown or any type, these protein-packed gems absorb all the flavors and make the soup wonderfully filling.
Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness right before serving.

How to Make Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrots, seasoning them with salt and pepper to bring out the sweetness and depth. Sauté these together for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re beginning to soften and release their fragrant aromas. This simple step lays the foundation for your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, it’s time to add in the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme or Herbes de Provence. Stir them in and sauté for about a minute until everything feels fragrant and inviting. The aromatics elevate the dish by layering delicate herbal notes that will mingle beautifully with the smoky ham hocks.

Step 3: Simmer the Ham Hocks

Pour in the chicken broth along with the undrained diced tomatoes, and nestle the smoked ham hocks into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to a simmer. Let it cook slowly for about one hour until the ham hocks become tender and have imparted their unmistakable smoky flavor to the broth. This slow simmer is key to developing that deep, soulful taste.

Step 4: Add the Lentils and Cook

Once your ham hocks are tender, add the rinsed lentils right into the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes or until the lentils are perfectly soft and have soaked up the lovely smoky, herbal broth flavors. The lentils will thicken the soup, giving it heart and body.

Step 5: Shred the Ham Hocks

Carefully remove the ham hocks from the soup, set them aside to cool slightly, then shred the meat with a fork. Return the shredded ham meat back into the soup, discarding bones, skin, and excess fat. This step ensures every bite has that delicious smoky protein, perfect for spoonful after spoonful.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency and Seasoning

If your soup feels too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more water to loosen it up. Finally, taste and adjust with salt and pepper to get the seasoning just right. Your Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe is now ready to warm you from the inside out.

How to Serve Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic topping here, adding a burst of green color and a fresh note to balance the smoky richness. A drizzle of good olive oil or a spoonful of tangy yogurt also works wonderfully if you want to add an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls makes it even more comforting. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables can round out the meal beautifully, adding texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that doubles as an edible container. For a cozy dinner party, ladle the soup into small mugs or cups for a delightful appetizer. Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or freshly ground black pepper to toast the senses before the first sip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps really well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the smokiness and freshness. The flavors often deepen after a day, making leftovers even more delicious, so don’t be shy about making extra.

Freezing

If you want to save it for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months, making it a perfect freezer meal for busy days.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Avoid high heat to keep the lentils tender and the flavors balanced. A quick fresh parsley garnish right before serving will revive its vibrant look and taste.

FAQs

Can I substitute the smoked ham hocks with something else?

Absolutely! While smoked ham hocks bring that distinctive smoky depth, you can use smoked sausage, bacon, or even smoked turkey legs as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the meat you choose.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

The traditional recipe relies on smoked ham hocks for flavor, but you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting vegetable broth and adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky element. Lentils and veggies still make it hearty and satisfying.

What type of lentils work best?

Brown lentils are a popular choice due to their earthy flavor and ability to hold shape, but green or French lentils also work well. Red lentils tend to break down more quickly and create a thicker texture if that’s your preference.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the aromatics or a dash of hot sauce when serving. It pairs beautifully with the smoky and sweet flavors in the soup, giving you a nice spicy kick.

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the veggies on the stove, then transfer them along with the other ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ham hocks and lentils are tender. It’s a hands-off way to build those great flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about a homemade soup that’s rich with flavor and made from simple, nourishing ingredients. This Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe brings together sweetness, earthiness, and smoky goodness in a way that feels both cozy and special. Whether you’re welcoming friends for dinner or craving a solo bowl of comfort, this recipe is bound to become one of your favorites. Give it a try—you’ll love the warmth and heart it brings to the table.

Carrot and Lentil Soup with Smoked Ham Hocks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 188 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This hearty Carrot and Lentil Soup features tender lentils simmered with aromatic vegetables, smoked ham hocks, and fresh herbs, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. The slow cooking process melds savory, smoky, and earthy flavors into a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

2 cups diced onion
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced carrots
2–3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

Broth and Proteins

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 quarts (8 cups) chicken broth
3–4 smoked ham hocks

Seasonings and Herbs

1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, to taste
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 bay leaves
3–4 sprigs fresh thyme (or Herbes de Provence)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Legumes

1 pound lentils, rinsed (brown or any type)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, bay leaves, and fresh thyme or Herbes de Provence. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Simmer ham hocks: Pour in the chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Add the smoked ham hocks. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1 hour, or until the ham hocks are tender.
Add lentils and cook: Stir in the rinsed lentils and continue cooking the soup for an additional 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Shred ham hocks: Remove the ham hocks from the pot carefully. Shred the meat off the bones, discarding bones, fat, and skin. Return the shredded meat to the soup.
Adjust consistency and seasoning: If the soup is too thick, add water to reach your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup hot into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve alongside crusty bread.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead.
The lentils do not need pre-soaking but rinsing them well helps remove debris.
Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs based on your flavor preference.
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can partially puree the soup with an immersion blender before adding the shredded ham.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American