Cream of Lentils with Bacon

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse lentils and place them in a large pot with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bacon and cook until crisp.
4. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, cumin, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the onion and bacon mixture to the pot with the lentils.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream.
8. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
9. Serve hot.

Verdict and Serving Suggestions

This creamy and hearty lentil soup is the perfect comfort food on a cold day. The addition of bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to the soup. Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.