Sincere Scribbles Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup: A Southern Comfort Dish

Sincere Scribbles Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup: A Southern Comfort Dish

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 hours
Servings: 8

If you’re searching for a wholesome, hearty soup that’s packed with flavor and brings a touch of Southern charm to your table, look no further than this Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup. The slow-cooked lentils, garden vegetables, and smoky sausage create a savory, robust dish perfect for family gatherings, meal prepping, or just a cozy dinner. With just one pot and a slow cooker, it’s the ultimate fuss-free Southern comfort meal that will leave your home filled with mouthwatering aromas.

Why This Soup Feels Like Home

There’s something deeply comforting about a big pot of soup simmering away for hours. For many Southerners, it’s not just about the food, but the tradition and warmth that comes with it. This Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup combines classic Southern staples—like smoky sausage and hearty vegetables— with slow-cooked lentils, creating a flavorful, comforting dish that evokes the feeling of a home-cooked Southern meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried lentils, rinsed and sorted
• 1 bag (16 oz) baby carrots
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 lb smoked sausage, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ tbsp Badia Complete seasoning
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 8 cups water

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by rinsing the lentils and sorting out any debris. Chop the baby carrots (if needed), celery, onion, and smoked sausage.

2. Combine in the Slow Cooker: In a large slow cooker, add the lentils, baby carrots, celery, onion, and chopped smoked sausage. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Badia Complete seasoning, smoked paprika, and minced garlic.

3. Add Water: Pour in 8 cups of water, ensuring everything is fully submerged.

4. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to “Low” and cook for 10-12 hours. Stir occasionally if desired, but otherwise let the slow cooker work its magic.

5. Serve & Enjoy: Once done, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with a side of cornbread for the perfect Southern meal!

Recipe Tips

• Adjust the spice: If you prefer a spicier soup, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this vegetarian, simply omit the smoked sausage. The smoked paprika still gives the soup a delicious smoky flavor!
• Meal Prep: This soup makes excellent leftovers. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

A Southern Twist on Lentil Soup

Lentils may be a pantry staple around the world, but this recipe brings them into the heart of Southern cooking. The inclusion of smoked sausage and a carefully balanced blend of seasonings gives this dish a distinct Southern flair. Badia Complete seasoning, a favorite in many Southern kitchens, ties all the flavors together, while smoked paprika enhances the comforting, slow-cooked essence that this dish offers.

Why Slow Cooker?

There’s a reason why Southern kitchens often have a slow cooker at the ready. It allows you to “set it and forget it” while giving dishes time to develop deep, rich flavors. This Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup benefits from the long, slow cooking process, making it even more flavorful as the hours pass.

Closing Thoughts

Sincere Scribbles Lentil and Garden Veggie Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace after a long day. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weekend lunch or preparing meals ahead for the week, this slow-cooker soup will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Pair it with a slice of buttery cornbread, and you’ve got yourself a Southern-inspired feast!