Delicious Bacon-Cheese Hot Dogs
◷ 30 min
Main CourseReader rated
Jana's Lentil and Ham Soup Made in a Pressure Cooker
This hearty soup combines tender lentils and savory ham for a comforting meal that's ready in no time. Using a pressure cooker makes it easy to enjoy rich flavors without the wait.
◷1 hrTotal Time
♜4Servings
▥HardDifficulty
Ingredients
4servings
Instructions
1
Pressure Cook Ham Shanks
Start by placing the ham shanks and water in your pressure cooker. Lock the lid in place and bring it up to 15 pounds of pressure over medium heat. Once it reaches pressure, lower the heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes. When the time’s up, carefully release the pressure following your cooker’s instructions. Take out the ham shanks with a slotted spoon and set them aside to cool. While they cool, strain the broth into a bowl and save it for later.
2
Saut Vegetables
Next, heat some olive oil in the empty pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking and stirring gently until everything softens and the veggies start to shrink down, which should take around 20 minutes.
3
Pressure Cook Lentils
Once the veggies are ready, stir in the lentils, 8 cups of the reserved ham broth, thyme, and a bay leaf. Lock the lid back on and bring it up to 15 pounds of pressure again, cooking for 6 minutes this time. As soon as the time is up, release the pressure right away.
4
Add Ham and Seasonings
While the soup is still warm, shred the cooled ham meat off the bones and stir it back into the pot along with the tomatoes, a pinch of black pepper, and a splash of vinegar. Let everything simmer gently just until heated through, then it’s ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is hearty and full of flavor, combining tender lentils with smoky ham. It cooks quickly in a pressure cooker, making it perfect for busy days. The result is a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce can add a nice touch. It also pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage Tips
Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months and reheat gently on the stove.
