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German lentil vegetable soup with smoked pork shanks, brown lentils, carrots, leek, celeriac, thyme, and parsley

Lentil Vegetable Soup with Smoked Pork Shanks (Linsensuppe mit Schweinefleisch)

This Lentil Vegetable Soup with Smoked Pork Shanks is a hearty German Linsensuppe made with brown lentils, smoked pork, carrots, celeriac, leek, onion, garlic, chicken stock, butter, thyme, and parsley. Warming, nourishing, and full of savory depth, this classic cold-weather soup makes a comforting meal for family dinners, lunch, or cozy winter evenings.
Servings 8

Ingredients

  • 1 lb brown lentils
  • 2 smoked pork shanks cooked
  • 1 large carrot diced
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 small celeriac diced
  • 1 leek diced
  • 3 garlic cloves chopped
  • 2 quarts chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • fresh thyme and chopped parsley
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Pick over lentils and wash.
  • Sauté all vegetables for about 5 minutes. Add stock, smoked pork shanks and lentils. Bring to a full boil.
  • Reduce heat and cook at low heat for 1/2 hour.
  • Take out the pork shanks, remove the meat from the bone and cut into small pieces.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste. Present in soup bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and thyme.

Notes

Why Lentils and Smoked Pork Work So Well Together

Lentils and smoked pork are a natural pairing because they balance each other beautifully. Lentils are earthy, mild, and hearty, while smoked pork is rich, salty, and savory.
As the pork shanks simmer, they season the broth and give the lentils more depth. The lentils absorb some of that smoky flavor while still keeping their own earthy character.
The result is a soup that tastes generous and satisfying without needing a long list of spices. A few simple vegetables and herbs are enough to complete the flavor.

The Vegetable Base

The vegetable base is what makes this lentil soup feel fresh and balanced instead of heavy. Carrot adds sweetness, onion and leek add savory flavor, celeriac adds earthiness, and garlic gives the broth warmth.
Sautéing the vegetables before adding the stock helps build flavor. The butter softens the vegetables and gives the soup a richer foundation.
Cut the vegetables into small, even pieces so they cook at the same pace as the lentils. This also makes the finished soup easier to eat, with lentils, vegetables, and pork in every spoonful.

Tips for the Best German Lentil Soup

Pick over and rinse the lentils before cooking. This removes dust and any tiny debris.
Do not add too much salt at the beginning. Smoked pork shanks and chicken stock can already contain salt, so it is best to adjust the seasoning near the end.
Simmer the soup gently after it reaches a boil. A low simmer helps the lentils cook evenly and keeps the pork tender.
Remove the pork shanks before serving and cut the meat into small pieces. This makes the soup easier to eat and ensures every bowl gets some smoked pork.
Add the parsley and thyme near the end or as a garnish so the herbs stay fresh and fragrant.

What to Serve with Lentil Vegetable Soup

This soup is hearty enough to serve as a full meal, but it pairs well with simple German breads, sides, and condiments.
Good pairings include:
  • Rye bread
  • German farmhouse bread
  • Pumpernickel
  • Pretzel rolls
  • Pickles or gherkins
  • German mustard
  • Cucumber salad
  • Green salad
  • Radishes
  • Potato pancakes
  • Sparkling mineral water
  • German beer
  • Apple cider
For a classic cold-weather meal, serve the soup with rye bread, mustard, and pickles. For a lighter lunch, add a crisp green salad.

Easy Variations

For a thicker soup, simmer the lentils a little longer or mash a small portion of the soup against the side of the pot.
For a brighter flavor, add a small splash of vinegar just before serving. This is a classic way to lift rich lentil soups.
For a more vegetable-forward version, add diced potatoes, celery, parsnip, or extra leek.
For a sausage version, replace the smoked pork shanks with sliced smoked sausage or cooked bratwurst.
For a lighter version, use lean smoked pork and add more vegetables.
For a heartier stew-like version, reduce the amount of stock slightly and let the soup thicken as it cooks.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Lentil soup is a great make-ahead meal because the flavor deepens as it rests. Prepare the soup a day ahead, cool it, and store it covered in the refrigerator.
The lentils may continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits. When reheating, add a splash of stock or water to loosen the texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop until hot.
This soup can also be frozen. Freeze in individual portions for easy lunches or quick dinners. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lentil Vegetable Soup with Smoked Pork Shanks?

It is a German-style lentil soup made with brown lentils, smoked pork shanks, vegetables, herbs, and chicken stock.

What does Linsensuppe mit Schweinefleisch mean?

Linsensuppe mit Schweinefleisch means lentil soup with pork. It describes the soup’s two main elements: lentils and smoked pork.

What kind of lentils should I use?

Brown lentils work well because they become tender while still holding some texture. Green lentils can also be used, though cooking time may vary.

Are the smoked pork shanks cooked before adding them?

This recipe uses cooked smoked pork shanks. They are simmered in the soup to flavor the broth, then the meat is removed from the bone and cut into small pieces.

Can I use smoked sausage instead of pork shanks?

Yes. Smoked sausage can be used for a quicker version. Add sliced sausage near the end of cooking so it warms through without overcooking.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. This soup is excellent made ahead. The flavors deepen overnight, though you may need to add extra stock or water when reheating.

What vegetables are used in this lentil soup?

This recipe uses carrot, onion, celeriac, leek, and garlic. These vegetables give the soup sweetness, earthiness, and savory depth.

What should I serve with German lentil soup?

Serve it with rye bread, farmhouse bread, pretzel rolls, pickles, mustard, cucumber salad, green salad, German beer, or sparkling mineral water.

Can I freeze lentil soup?

Yes. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers. Reheat gently and add extra stock or water if the soup has thickened.
Course: Soup