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Hearty Lentil and Bacon Soup

A comforting and flavorful soup featuring tender lentils, smoky bacon, and fresh vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 4 oz bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces Smoky flavor adds depth.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Provides sweetness.
  • 2 pieces carrots, diced Adds color and sweetness.
  • 2 stalks celery, diced Adds crunch and flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed Green or brown work best.
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth Base for the soup.
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, with their juice Adds depth and acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Herb flavor.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Flavor enhancer.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh parsley Optional, for garnish.

Method
 

Sizzling the Bacon
  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy.
Adding Aromatics
  1. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Incorporating Garlic
  1. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Cooking Lentils
  1. Add the rinsed lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
Final Seasoning
  1. Stir, taste, and season with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread. For variations, consider using beans instead of lentils, or adding cayenne pepper for heat. It can be blended for a creamier texture.