Description
This Chorizo Lentil Soup is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that combines smoky chorizo with tender lentils in a savory tomato-based broth. Packed with protein, fiber, and warming spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that tastes even better the next day! Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz chorizo, sliced or crumbled
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: spinach or kale, chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it releases its flavorful oils.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the ingredients in the spices.
- Add the lentils, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir in spinach or kale if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with crusty bread!
Notes
- Spanish chorizo adds a firm, meaty bite, while Mexican chorizo melts into the broth for extra richness
- Green or brown lentils hold their shape best, while red lentils will create a thicker texture
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months
- The soup thickens as it sits—add a splash of broth when reheating if needed
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish, Mexican-Inspired
Keywords: chorizo lentil soup, lentil soup with chorizo, spicy lentil soup, one-pot soup, hearty soup recipe, easy soup recipe