If you're on the hunt for a comforting bowl of soup that combines the savory goodness of bacon with the wholesome heartiness of lentils, look no further than this Bacon Lettuce Tomato Lentil Soup! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Imagine the rich aroma of crispy bacon mingling with fresh veggies and lentils, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Ready to elevate your soup game? Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that's not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped lettuce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of lentils, 4 slices of bacon (chopped), 1 onion (chopped), 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of chopped lettuce, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any debris. Set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the remaining bacon fat. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the lentils slightly.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, add the chopped lettuce to the pot. Stir to incorporate the lettuce, allowing it to wilt slightly in the hot soup.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the bacon may add some saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt.
- Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the Bacon Lettuce Tomato Lentil Soup hot, garnished with extra bacon bits if desired. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Tips
- Choose Your Lentils Wisely: While any lentils can work, green or brown lentils hold their shape better in soups compared to red lentils, which tend to break down.
- Crispy Bacon: For the crispiest bacon, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the bacon. This will help render the fat quickly and give you that perfect crunch.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for an extra layer of flavor that complements the bacon beautifully.
- Vegetable Broth: Homemade vegetable broth will elevate the flavor of your soup, but store-bought works just fine. Just be mindful of the salt content!
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.
- Storage Tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
