Name: French Lentil Bacon Soup: 7 Hearty Comfort Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup French green lentils; 4 strips bacon, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups water; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

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French Lentil Bacon Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that warms the soul on chilly evenings. This delightful recipe combines tender French green lentils with smoky bacon and aromatic vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. It’s an easy dish to prepare and perfect for meal prep, providing comfort and nourishment in every bowl. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or a make-ahead lunch option, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This French Lentil Bacon Soup

This soup is not just delicious; it has several benefits that make it a go-to choice for many. First, the combination of French green lentils and bacon creates a hearty French lentil soup that is rich in flavor and nutrition. Second, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner. Third, it offers the comforting taste of home with every spoonful. Fourth, it’s versatile; you can easily adjust the recipe to include vegetables or even make a vegetarian French lentil soup by omitting the bacon. Fifth, this bacon and lentil soup recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for a few days. Lastly, it’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys French-style lentil soup with pork flavors.

Ingredients for French Lentil Bacon Soup

Gather these items:

1 cup French green lentils
4 strips bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (optional)

How to Make French Lentil Bacon Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Chop bacon, dice onion, carrots, and celery, mince garlic, and rinse lentils.
Step 2: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly.
Step 4: Stir in lentils, broth, water, bay leaves, and thyme.
Step 5: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35–45 minutes until lentils are tender.
Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves.
Step 7: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if desired, then serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Lentil Bacon Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
It freezes well for up to 3 months.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
For an extra depth of flavor, consider using French lentil soup with smoked bacon.
Use a quality broth for a richer taste. Learn more about choosing the right broth.

Best Ways to Serve French Lentil Bacon Soup

This soup can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a classic pairing. You can also top it with some crispy bacon for an extra crunch or garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor. For those looking for a vegetarian option, try a vegetarian French lentil soup by omitting bacon and using a vegetable broth.

French Lentil Bacon Soup: 7 Hearty Comfort Recipes - French Lentil Bacon Soup - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat French Lentil Bacon Soup

To store, simply place the soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Lentil Bacon Soup

What’s the secret to perfect French Lentil Bacon Soup?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients you use, particularly the broth and lentils. Additionally, allowing the soup to simmer long enough for the flavors to meld is crucial for achieving the best taste. Discover more tips for perfecting your soup.

Can I make French Lentil Bacon Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Lentil Bacon Soup?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure not to overcook the lentils, as they can turn mushy. Also, be mindful of the salt, especially if using a salted broth.

Variations of French Lentil Bacon Soup You Can Try

There are several delicious variations you can experiment with. Consider adding diced potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition. You could also turn this into a bacon-infused lentil soup by using different types of bacon or adding some spices for a kick. For a lighter option, try a French-inspired lentil soup with vegetables only.