Masala Chai Lentil & Ham Soup with Sweet Potato & Greens

When winter calls for something warm, nourishing, and deeply comforting, this Masala Chai Lentil & Ham Soup with Sweet Potato & Kale answers beautifully. Earthy lentils, savory ham, tender sweet potatoes, and leafy greens simmer together with aromatic masala chai for a cozy bowl that feeds both body and soul.

The chai adds subtle warmth—not sweetness—layering spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and clove into the broth for a truly unique, crave-worthy soup.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Hearty, filling, and packed with protein and fiber
• Masala chai adds warm spice without overpowering
• Perfect for meal prep and cozy winter dinners
• Uses simple pantry and freezer-friendly ingredients

Ingredients

• 2 cups cubed sweet potato or butternut squash (frozen is fine)
• 1½–2 cups diced ham
• 1 sweet onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 cups dried red lentils
• 3 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 Tbsp curry powder, divided
• 1 tsp ground cumin, divided
• 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
• ¾ tsp salt
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cups brewed Masala Chai
• 5 cups kale or spinach

Method

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp curry powder, and ½ tsp cumin. Roast 8–10 minutes until just tender. Set aside.
3. Rinse lentils in a fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain well.
4. Heat remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, remaining curry powder and cumin, thyme, and salt. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add diced ham and cook 2–3 minutes until lightly caramelized.
7. Stir in lentils, tomato sauce, broth, and brewed Masala Chai. Bring to a simmer.
8. Cover and cook 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender.
9. Add roasted sweet potatoes and kale. Simmer 5 minutes until greens are tender.
10. Serve hot with warmed pita bread, naan, or crusty sourdough.

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