Fennel-Infused Red Lentil Soup

A hearty and flavorful soup infused with the aromatic essence of fennel, perfect for a cozy night in or to impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients

1	cup red lentils
2	tablespoons olive oil
1	onion (medium)
½	cup celery
1	cup butternut squash or sweet potato (diced)
	uncooked Italian-flavored chicken sausage links (casings removed)
4	water
¼	fennel bulb (small/medium-sized) or 1 teaspoon fennel or anise seeds
	salt and pepper (to taste)
1	tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

• 1. Begin by meticulously sorting the red lentils to ensure that any small rocks or debris are removed.
  2. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion, celery, and butternut squash in olive oil until they are tender and fragrant.
  3. Add the Italian-flavored chicken sausage links (casings removed) and cook until fully cooked.
  4. Introduce the sorted red lentils to the pot, ensuring they are evenly coated with the aromatic mixture.
  5. Pour in the water, fennel, salt, and pepper, then bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  6. Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer over medium to medium-low heat for approximately 20 minutes, or until the lentils have softened to perfection. For a thicker consistency, gently mash a portion of the soup and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes.

Jul 19, 2024