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Mareca

Hearty French Lentil Soup with Bacon: A Comforting Delight

A comforting and hearty French lentil soup with bacon, perfect for a cozy meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: French
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed and drained
  • 4 slices bacon chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chopped kale or spinach optional
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method
 

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils, broth, bay leaf, and the reserved bacon to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  5. If using, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the lemon juice before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2g

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
  • You can also add diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.

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