Recipe: French Lentil Soup

Perfect for a cozy supper, this thick and flavorful lentil soup is just right for chilly evenings. With savory bacon, tender vegetables, and rich stock, it’s hearty enough to serve as a main course with crusty bread and cheese. For a more refined presentation, you can purée the soup for a velvety texture, making it an elegant opener for a dinner party.

Servings: 2–3
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
• ¾ cup French green lentils (or substitute red or orange lentils for a different flavor)
• 6 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs for flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   • Chop the onion, carrot and garlic. Use kitchen scissors to cut the bacon into small pieces.

2. Cook the Lentils

   • In a large saucepan, add the lentils and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then drain the lentils in a strainer and rinse them under cold water. Return the rinsed lentils to the saucepan.

3. Build the Soup Base

   • Add the stock to the pan with the lentils. Then add the chopped vegetables, bacon, and bouquet garni. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Half-cover the pan and cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little extra water.

4. Season and Serve

   • Remove the bouquet garni, season the soup to taste with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Chef’s Tips

• French Green Lentils: Known for their nutty flavor and ability to hold their shape, French green lentils are ideal for this soup. However, you can also use red or orange lentils, which create a creamier texture.

• Variation: Add a tablespoon of your prefered curry powder at the beginning of Step 3 and serve with lemon wedges to be squeezed on the soup just before eating.

• Serve with Garnish: For an elegant touch, garnish with small thyme leaves or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

This Hearty Lentil Soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Pair it with a slice of warm, crusty bread and enjoy the nourishing flavors of this timeless recipe. Perfect for a relaxed evening at home or an intimate gathering with loved ones, this soup is bound to become a seasonal favorite.