Emeril's Bacon Lentils

I came across this on the Food Network. I was on a quest to do something with a bag of lentils a neighbor gave me. I didn't know what they were and didn't know how to prepare them. I lightened up the orig. recipe that called for bacon slices and use bouillion instead of stock to fit my own needs. This is an excellent recipe. You must try these!

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 3  tablespoons bacon bits (hormel low fat)
• 1⁄4 cup celery (chopped)
• 1⁄4 cup onion (chopped)
• 1⁄4 cup carrot (chopped)
• 1⁄2 lb lentils (1/2 of a bag)
• 1 -3  bay leaf
• 4  cups water
• 4  chicken bouillon cubes
•  salt and pepper
• 1  tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Heat large soup pot over med high heat with oil.
2. Add onions, celery, and carrots.
3. Cook until the veggies sweat a little and become tender.
4. Add bacon bits, bay leaves, and lentils.
5. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly to not burn the bacon.
6. Add the water and boillion cubes.
7. Bring to a boil.
8. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes.
9. Add salt and pepper to taste.