# Ingredient List:
→ Meats
01 - 12 oz spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
→ Legumes
07 - 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
→ Liquids
08 - 5 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
09 - 14 oz can diced tomatoes with juices
10 - 2 cups water
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
13 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - 1 bay leaf
16 - Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Oils
17 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
# Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned about 5 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, thyme, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add lentils, diced tomatoes with juices, broth, water, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
05 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
06 - Remove the bay leaf. Stir in chopped kale and simmer uncovered for another 5 to 7 minutes, until kale is wilted and tender.
07 - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
