Bacon Lentil Soup

I don't remember exactly where I got this recipe, but I found it when I was looking for a way to use up leftover bacon. This is a great fall or winter dish. Serve with some Parmesan cheese toasts. It is even better the 2nd day!

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup  chopped onion
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped celery
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped carrot
• 1  slice bacon, chopped
• 2  minced garlic cloves
• 7  cups  chicken stock
• 2  cups dried brown lentils
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1  bay leaf

Directions

1. Combine onion, celery carrot, bacon and garlic in a large pan. Stir over medium heat on med-high for two minutes.
2. Reduce heat to med-low and cover. Continue to cook until the veggies are tender; about 7 minutes.
3. Uncover and add broth, lentils, thyme and bay leaf and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until the lentils are tender, stirring occasionally; about 30-45 minutes.
5. Discard bay leaf and serve.