Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters Recipe
A German New Year's tradition
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Thick brown lentils simmered with smoky bacon, root vegetables, and a splash of vinegar, served with Frankfurter sausages.
About This Recipe
"Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters" is a Soups & Stews recipe that brings brown lentils, smoked bacon, diced, carrots, diced, celery, diced and onion, diced together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 50 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown lentils
- 4 oz smoked bacon, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 6 cups water or broth
- 4 Frankfurter sausages
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions
- 1
Sauté bacon, onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- 2
Add lentils, water, and bay leaf. Simmer 35 minutes until tender.
- 3
Add vinegar and sliced sausages. Heat through and season.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Brown lentils is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters" is a versatile Soups & Stews dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 50 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters?
Store leftover Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Hearty Lentil Soup with Frankfurters in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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