Ingredients
- Smoked ham shanks, a generous 1 ½ pounds of savory goodness
- An ample 10 cups of pure water
- A drizzle of flavorful olive oil, just a tablespoon
- A hefty yellow onion, finely chopped for robust flavor
- Delicate slices of 3 vibrant carrots
- 2 stalks of celery, finely diced for a pleasing crunch
- 2 cloves of garlic, pressed for a burst of aroma
- Nutritious lentils, about 2 cups worth
- Fragrant dried thyme, precisely 1 ¼ teaspoons
- A single bay leaf, adding depth to the dish
- Diced tomatoes from a 14.5-ounce can, for a burst of freshness
- A sprinkle of ground black pepper, tailor to your taste
- A touch of vinegar, just a teaspoon or more for a tangy twist.
Step 1
Begin by placing the ham shanks and water in a pressure cooker set over medium heat. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer and then cover with the lid, ensuring it is securely locked. Once the pressure reaches around 15 pounds, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for roughly 20 minutes. When done, carefully release the pressure following the recommended method by the manufacturer. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked ham shanks to a bowl to cool before separating the flavorful meat from the bone. Don't forget to save the delicious ham broth in a separate bowl for future use.
Step 2
In the same pressure cooker, heat up a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they turn tender and aromatic, which should take roughly 20 minutes. Next, add the lentils, some of the saved ham broth, along with fragrant thyme and a bay leaf. Cover with the lid, ensuring it is locked securely. Increase the pressure to about 15 pounds and let it cook for 6 minutes before releasing the pressure promptly.
Step 3
To finish off this hearty dish, gently stir in the tomatoes, ham, a dash of black pepper, and a splash of vinegar into the soup. Allow the flavors to meld together over low heat until everything is heated through and ready to be enjoyed.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Begin by organizing your pantry shelves with clear containers to store your dried lentils, ham hocks, and any other ingredients needed for the recipe. This will not only save space but also keep your ingredients fresh for longer.
- 2. Utilize your refrigerator space efficiently by storing any pre-prepped ingredients, like chopped vegetables or cooked ham, in airtight containers. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
