Lentil Soup

 Ingredients: -500g dried lentils -ham, smoked bones, smoked sausages, what you want and how much you want -1 large onion -1/2 red bell pepper -1 zucchini -4 carrots -2 celery stalks -2 tablespoons olive oil -2 tablespoons sunflower oil -2 bay leaves -5 tablespoons tomato paste -parsley leaves -salt -pepper

To prepare a delicious lentil soup with homemade bacon, it is important to follow the steps carefully and enjoy each stage of cooking. Start by soaking the lentils in water the night before. This way, the lentils will absorb the water and be easier to cook the next day. In the morning, when you are ready to start cooking, put the bacon to boil. Choose a saltier homemade bacon that will give a special flavor to your soup.

After the bacon has boiled for about half the time, discard the water it boiled in, let it cool slightly, and cut it into cubes. It’s time to take care of the vegetables. In a pot, heat a few tablespoons of sunflower and olive oil. Once the oil is well heated, add the finely chopped onion. Let it sauté a little while you take care of the bell pepper; cut it into cubes and add it to the pot. Allow the onion and bell pepper to sauté together for a few minutes until they become slightly golden.

Then, add the chopped carrots, zucchini, and celery stalks. It is important to let them sauté together to combine the flavors and create a rich base for the soup. When the vegetables are a little soft, it’s time to add the lentils. Add the diced bacon and pour water over everything until the ingredients are covered by about 2-3 fingers. If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more water.

Add a few bay leaves, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Put everything on medium heat and let the soup boil. It is essential to stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Before turning off the heat, check the taste again. You may want to add a dash more salt or pepper, but in my case, it was enough from the start.

When the soup is ready, finely chop the parsley leaves and sprinkle them on top for a fresh look and pleasant aroma. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread. This recipe will not only warm your soul but will also bring a touch of happiness in every spoonful. Enjoy your meal!

 Tags:  onion greenness carrots broth pepper oil olives gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes