This Smoky Bacon and Lentil Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon with tender red lentils. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
The soup features a fragrant mix of onions, garlic, and carrots, enhanced by smoked paprika and crushed tomatoes, creating a warm, earthy depth. This Homemade Lentil Soup is inspired by various recipes, delivering all the heartiness of classic Lentil and Bacon Soup with an irresistible smoky twist.
Hearty Smoky Bacon and Lentil Soup
This Smoky Bacon and Lentil Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for those chilly evenings.
With crispy bacon, tender red lentils, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, each spoonful offers a comforting experience.
The addition of smoked paprika enhances the dish, giving it a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional lentil soups.
Ingredients That Bring Comfort
The ingredients for this soup are simple yet effective in creating a hearty meal.
Chopped smoky bacon serves as the base, infusing the soup with rich flavor.
Onions, garlic, and carrots add depth and sweetness, while crushed tomatoes provide a tangy backdrop.
Red lentils are the star, cooking down to a creamy consistency that complements the crispy bacon perfectly.
Cooking Process: From Pot to Bowl
Preparing this soup is straightforward and rewarding.
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, allowing the drippings to flavor the vegetables that follow.
Sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots in the bacon fat creates a fragrant base, enhancing the overall taste.
Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the smoked paprika and crushed tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Simmering to Perfection
After combining the lentils and broth with the sautéed mixture, bring everything to a boil.
Lower the heat and let it simmer until the lentils are tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
This step is crucial for achieving that comforting texture that makes this soup so satisfying.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
When it comes to serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Pairing this soup with crusty bread or a simple salad can elevate the meal, making it even more enjoyable.
The rustic wooden spoon beside the bowl adds a charming touch, inviting everyone to dig in.
A Cozy Kitchen Experience
The setting plays a significant role in enjoying this Smoky Bacon and Lentil Soup.
Imagine a cozy kitchen, filled with the warm aroma of simmering soup, creating an inviting atmosphere.
This dish not only warms the body but also brings a sense of comfort and togetherness, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep.
Hearty Smoky Bacon and Lentil Soup
This recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people. The combination of bacon and lentils makes it a satisfying option for comfort food lovers, while the smoked paprika adds a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional soups.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of smoky bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in the smoked paprika and crushed tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils, broth, and cooked bacon back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g