Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 3 cups

　　a 2 1/2-inch piece smoked kielbasa, sliced thin

　　1 teaspoon vegetable oil if necessary

　　2 garlic cloves, minced

　　1 small onion, sliced thin

　　1/2 cup lentils, picked over

　　1 1/2 cups water

　　1 1/2 cups chicken broth

　　1/2 small bunch kale, stems and center ribs discarded and leaves sliced thin (about 2 cups)

　　1 tablespoon balsamic or red-wine vinegar

　　

Step 1

In a 3-quart heavy saucepan brown sausage over moderate heat and transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. If there is more than 1 teaspoon fat in pan pour off excess; if there is less, add enough oil to measure 1 teaspoon fat. Cook garlic, stirring, until golden. Add onion and cook, stirring, until softened.

　　

Step 2

Add lentils, water, broth, and sausage and simmer, covered, 30 minutes. Add kale and simmer, uncovered, until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in vinegar and salt and pepper to taste.