Hearty Brown Lentils with Tasso – A Caffeine Classic

Hearty Brown Lentils with Tasso – A Caffeine Classic

Hearty Brown Lentils with Tasso – A Caffeine Classic

Back when we ran our restaurant, Caffeine, this Brown Lentils and Tasso dish was a staple. It showed up as the Soup of the Day at least once a week, and for good reason—it’s hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect with lentils and rice, toast, or as a side to roasted meats. Whether you need an easy dinner recipe or a comforting bowl of goodness, this one delivers. 

YouTube Tutorial

Ingredients:

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 large celery stalk, diced
  • 1 head of garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Lucky Cajun Black Label
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 lb brown lentils, rinsed
  • 7 cups no-sodium stock
  • 11 oz tasso, diced

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot over medium heat, warm a bit of oil. Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and celery, cooking until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
  2. Add the Tasso: Stir in the tasso and let it brown slightly, rendering its smoky, spicy goodness into the pot.
  3. Build the Flavor: Pour in the stock, then add Lucky Cajun Black Label, bay leaf, thyme, and the brown lentils. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  4. Let It Cook: Simmer uncovered for about 30–40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
  5. Serve It Up: Enjoy it as a lentil soup, pair it with rice, or serve with crusty toast for a satisfying meal.

Customization Options:

  • Meat Swaps: If you can’t find tasso, swap it for andouille, bacon, or ham. Keep in mind that ham and bacon may add more salt but less spice—so be sure to use our Salt-Free Lucky Cajun for balance.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Option: If you don’t eat pork due to religious or lifestyle choices, try adding mushrooms, cabbage, or root vegetables for depth. Just remember to adjust the salt to taste when subbing out cured meats.

This brown lentil soup is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, comforting flavors. Whether you make it just like we did at Caffeine or put your own spin on it, it’s a dish worth revisiting week after week.

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