Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over a medium heat.

Step 2

When hot, add the sausage meat, breaking it up with a spoon until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened, around 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the lentils, fennel seeds, and tomato puree and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 5

Add the broth, water, and oregano, bring to a simmer, and cook until the lentils are tender, about 40 minutes.

Step 6

Once the lentils are cooked, add the kale and cook for a few minutes until it has softened.

Step 7

Remove from the heat, add salt and pepper* as necessary, and serve.

Step 8

*Don't add salt until after the lentils are cooked otherwise they can get a bit tough.