Ham and lentil stew with crusty bread
Ham and lentil stew is a hearty, comforting dish typically made with ham (often a bone or hock for flavor), lentils (like brown or green), aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery, and herbs like thyme or bay leaf. It's a classic staple in many European and American home kitchens, particularly popular in British and American cuisine, often served with crusty bread for dipping.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This stew is a balanced meal, offering a good mix of protein from the ham and lentils, complex carbohydrates from the lentils and vegetables, and moderate fat depending on the cut of ham used. It provides key nutrients like iron, fiber, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie ballpark of 300-400 calories per serving (without bread).
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbs | 48 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
| Potassium | 680 mg |
| Iron | 4.8 mg |
| Folate | 160 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 290 mg |
| Magnesium | 65 mg |
| Zinc | 3.2 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
Per 1.5 cups (360 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish is a prime example of 'peasant food' or frugal cooking, where humble ingredients like lentils and ham scraps are transformed into a nutritious, filling meal. Nutritionally, the combination of ham and lentils creates a complete protein profile, making it a satisfying option for both meat-eaters and those looking for plant-forward comfort food.
