Lentil and ham casserole
Lentil and ham casserole is a hearty, comforting baked dish originating from European culinary traditions, particularly popular in French and British home cooking. It typically features brown or green lentils slow-cooked with diced ham or ham hock, aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, and is often seasoned with herbs such as thyme and bay leaf before being baked until thick and flavorful.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a protein-packed meal, with the lentils and ham providing substantial amounts of both plant-based and animal protein, along with significant dietary fiber and iron. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) generally ranges from 350 to 450 calories, with a balanced profile of carbohydrates from the lentils and moderate fat from the ham.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 650 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Folate | 180 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
| Magnesium | 80 mg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this casserole is a classic example of 'peasant food' or 'comfort food' that transforms simple, inexpensive ingredients into a nourishing meal, often using leftover ham from holidays like Christmas or Easter. Nutritionally, the combination of lentils (a legume) with ham creates a complete protein profile, making it an exceptionally satisfying and muscle-supporting dish.
