This hearty Slow Cooker Sausage and Lentil Soup combines smoky andouille chicken sausage with protein-packed French lentils and fresh kale for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.
2 cups dried French lentils (du Puy)
12 ounces cooked andouille-style chicken sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 cups chopped kale leaves
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1. Place the dried French lentils, sliced chicken sausage, chopped kale, diced onion, and minced garlic into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
2. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth.
3. Add the fresh thyme sprigs, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Stir all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to the LOW setting.
6. Cook for approximately 8 hours or until the lentils are tender.
7. Remove the thyme stems before serving and enjoy warm.
Use French lentils (Lentilles du Puy) to ensure they hold their shape during the long cook time.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If using spinach instead of kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/sausage-and-lentil-soup/