Hey there! Are you in the mood for a hearty and soul-warming soup that's packed with incredible flavors? Look no further than our delectable Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the smoky goodness of chorizo with the earthy richness of red lentils.

The result? A bowl of pure comfort that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether you're looking to impress your family at dinner or simply craving a satisfying meal, our Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup is a must-try. Get ready to dive into a world of bold and aromatic flavors that will leave you longing for more with every spoonful. Trust us, this soup is a game-changer when it comes to indulgent comfort food. So, grab your ladle, and let's get cooking!

Experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl

Alright, now that your mouth is probably watering just thinking about our flavorful Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup, let's dive into the details of this amazing dish. Picture this: tender and smoky chorizo mingling with hearty red lentils, all simmered together in a fragrant broth that's seasoned to perfection. The combination of savory spices, like cumin and paprika, adds an extra layer of depth to each spoonful. Plus, the red lentils provide a healthy dose of protein and fiber, making this soup as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you're a soup enthusiast or simply looking for a comforting meal to warm your heart, our Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup will hit all the right spots. So, get your apron on and prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that's sure to impress your taste buds. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl—let's get cooking!

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.

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Experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl
Ingredients needed to make Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup.
How to make Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup.
Variations on the Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup recipe
Storage for the Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup
Top tips for making Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup
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Delicious Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup - Flavorful Comfort in a Bowl

Ingredients needed to make Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup.

3 4-oz. chorizo sausage links
1 T. extra virgin olive oil.
1 large carrot, chopped small
1 large stalk celery, chopped small
1 medium yellow onion, chopped small
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
6 c. chicken stock
2 c. red lentils, well rinsed
1 15-oz. can of diced tomatoes, with liquid
1 t. dried oregano
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. dried thyme
2 whole bay leaves
2” Parmesan cheese rind (optional)

Optional:
¼ c. fresh basil chopped
3 T. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to make Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup.

Brown Chorizo sausage links in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Add olive oil to the skillet and add the chopped carrot, celery, and onion. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop some color, approximately 4-5 minutes.
Return sausage to skillet, along with chicken stock, red lentils, diced tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind, if using.
Stir to combine and increase heat to medium-high. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a tilted lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until just until the lentils are tender.
Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves and remaining Parmesan rind. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Stir in fresh basil and serve immediately, topped with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Variations on the Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup recipe

You can spice up this recipe by trying different variations to the original recipe.

Spicy Chipotle Twist: Add a hint of heat by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. The smoky and fiery flavors will give the soup an extra kick.
Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless option, substitute the chorizo with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers. The red lentils will still provide a satisfying texture and taste.
Mediterranean Fusion: Infuse a Mediterranean flair by adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. This combination will elevate the flavors and create a unique twist.
Coconut Curry Infusion: Transform your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup into a fragrant and exotic delight by incorporating coconut milk and curry paste. The creamy coconut flavor will beautifully complement the smoky chorizo and earthy lentils.
Spanish-Inspired Paella Soup: Incorporate elements of a classic Spanish paella by adding saffron, diced tomatoes, and a variety of seafood such as shrimp, mussels, and clams to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. The result? A fusion of flavors that will transport you to the shores of Spain.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Amp up the flavors by roasting a colorful assortment of vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Add them to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup for a burst of roasted goodness and added nutritional value.
Smoky Bacon Infusion: Replace the chorizo with crispy bacon for a smoky twist on the traditional Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. The savory bacon flavors will mingle with the lentils, creating a comforting and satisfying soup.
Thai-Inspired Lemongrass Twist: Infuse a Thai twist by adding lemongrass, ginger, and a squeeze of lime to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. These vibrant flavors will add a zesty and aromatic touch to your soup.
Moroccan-Inspired Spice Blend: Introduce Moroccan flavors by incorporating spices like cumin, cinnamon, and coriander to your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. This aromatic blend will give your soup a warm and exotic taste.
Creamy Cauliflower Addition: For a creamier texture, blend cooked cauliflower into your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup. The cauliflower will add a velvety consistency and extra nutrition to the dish.

Storage for the Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup

Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is important to cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container and placing it in the fridge. Make sure to reheat the soup thoroughly before consuming it.

Top tips for making Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup

Use high-quality chorizo: Opt for good-quality chorizo that is flavorful and not overly greasy. This will ensure that the soup has a rich and smoky taste.
Sauté the chorizo: Before adding it to the soup, sauté the chorizo in a separate pan to release its oils and enhance its flavors. This step adds an extra layer of depth to the soup.
Soak and rinse the lentils: Before cooking the red lentils, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. Then, rinse them thoroughly to remove any impurities. This process helps in reducing cooking time and improving the texture of the lentils.
Customize the spice level: Adjust the spice level according to your preference. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder taste, reduce the amount of spices used.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top of the soup. These herbs add a burst of freshness and bring out the flavors in the dish.
Serve with crusty bread: Pair your Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup with some crusty bread or toasted baguette slices. The bread complements the soup and provides a satisfying crunch.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making a larger batch and enjoying it as a quick and delicious meal throughout the week.
Add a squeeze of citrus: Just before serving, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice into the soup. The citrusy tang will brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Experiment with toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or some crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
Freeze for later: If you have leftovers or want to make a batch for future use, this soup freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and store it for up to three months. Simply thaw and reheat whenever you're in the mood for a comforting bowl of Chorizo & Red Lentil Soup.

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Pairing

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