When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Lentil Soup. Not only is it hearty and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. This particular version has been passed down by my dad, and it’s become a firm favourite in our family.
What makes it extra special is the addition of smoky Kassler chops, which add a rich, savoury depth of flavour. Even though the ingredients are simple, the result is anything but boring. After just a little prep and some gentle simmering, you’ll have a pot of soup that’s both nourishing and deeply flavourful.
Best of all, it tastes even better the next day — making it ideal for leftovers, meal prep, or freezing for a busy week ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Lentil Soup
- It’s incredibly simple to make, so you won’t need any special skills in the kitchen.
- Because the ingredients are budget-friendly, it’s a great option when you want something satisfying without spending much.
- Thanks to the Kassler chops, you’ll enjoy a smoky, depth that sets this soup apart.
- Whether you’re cooking ahead or freezing leftovers, this recipe fits easily into your weekly routine.
- Naturally gluten-free and packed with protein and fibre, it’s a wholesome option that keeps you feeling full.
Easy Lentil Soup
Ingredients
- 270 g Lentils 1 ½ cups / 9.5 oz
- 2 tablespoons Sunflower Oil
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 2 –3 Garlic Cloves crushed
- 1 –2 Carrots diced
- 2 Kassler Chops approx. 300 g / 10.5 oz
- 2 medium Potatoes diced and soaked (approx. 300 g / 10.5 oz)
- 1 level teaspoon Salt or to taste
- Freshly ground Black Pepper
- 7 cups 1.65 litres / 56 oz Water (approximately)
- 1 tablespoon Vinegar apple cider or white
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly using a sieve and check for stones. Soak for 1 hour.
- Prepare the vegetables: peel and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Soak the chopped potatoes in water to prevent browning.
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until soft. Add garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Drain and add lentils, carrots, and Kassler chops to the pot. Using a measuring cup set, pour in 5 cups (1.2 litres / 40 oz) of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot. Add 1 cups (240 ml / 8 oz) of water if necessary. Cook for another 1 hour, or until lentils and potatoes are soft.
- Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Remove the Kassler chops from the pot. Cut the meat into small pieces, discarding any excess fat. Return the chopped meat to the soup.
- Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to finish.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve this Lentil Soup with crusty bread or a thick slice of rye. While the soup is filling on its own, a light green salad on the side adds freshness and balances the hearty flavours beautifully. If you’re entertaining or stretching the meal further, warm rolls or a garlic flatbread are also excellent additions.
Optional Add-In
If you’d like to make the soup even more satisfying, try stirring in a handful of cooked pasta just before serving — it’s one of our favourite variations. You can also add a frankfurter or two, sliced into small pieces; it’s a delicious way to adds extra flavour and protein.
Although this soup is lovely as-is, these simple additions give it a bit more substance, especially on colder days.
Storage & Make-Ahead Notes
This soup stores well and is ideal for busy weeks. Simply let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Easy Lentil Soup
Yes, lentil soup is high in fibre, protein, and essential nutrients like iron and folate.
Crusty bread, flatbread, or a simple salad pairs perfectly with this soup.
Absolutely! Just skip the Kassler Chop and use veggie stock for a delicious vegetarian version.
It’s a German-style cured and smoked pork chop. It adds a unique, smoky flavour to soups.
I Would Love to Hear From You
Tried this recipe or have your own twist on it? Leave a comment below or tag me on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook. I’d love to see your creations and hear your memories of lentil soup!
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The Tools you’ll need to Nail this Easy Lentil Soup Recipe
The Pyrex Essentials 3-Pack Measuring Cup Set includes 1-cup (250 ml), 2-cup (500 ml), and 4-cup (1 L) glass cups—perfect for baking, cooking, and meal prep. Made from durable, heat-resistant glass, they’re safe for the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher.
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Other Hearty Dishes you should try
German Beef Goulash Rich and hearty stew with tender beef, onions, and paprika — perfect for chilly days.
German Meatballs (Frikadellen) are tender, flavourful patties perfect for dinner or as a delicious sandwich filling.
Oxtail Stew This Slow-Braised Oxtail Stew is a deeply satisfying, fall-apart tender dish that’s bursting with rich flavours and slow-cooked goodness.
German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) Sweet and tangy braised red cabbage — a must-have side for roasts and stews.
German Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat) A delicious warm potato salad made with mustard, onion, and chicken stock—easy to prepare and perfect for Oktoberfest celebrations.