There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Comforting French Lentil Bacon Soup hits all the right notes. Picture the earthy aroma of French green lentils mingling with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a bouquet of aromatic herbs—it’s enough to make any stressful day melt away. I first discovered this cozy recipe while searching for ways to revive my weekly dinner rotation, and it quickly became a staple.
Not only is this soup easy to whip up, but it’s also hearty and packed with nutritious ingredients, making it perfect for both a comforting dinner and lunch leftovers. The delightful contrast of tender lentils, soft potatoes, and the smokiness of bacon creates a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. If you’re looking for a way to make your family fall in love with home-cooked meals again, this recipe is a fabulous place to start! Let’s dive into how to create this comforting masterpiece.
Why is French Lentil Bacon Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting flavors: Each spoonful delivers a warm hug, blending earthy lentils with smoky bacon and fresh veggies.
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this soup nourishes your body while satisfying your taste buds.
Quick and easy: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can prepare this hearty meal in no time.
Flexibility: Whether served for dinner or enjoyed as leftovers for lunch, this soup adapts beautifully to your schedule.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or cozy get-togethers, it’s bound to impress anyone at your table!
Indulge in this delightful recipe and let it brighten your cold days!
French Lentil Bacon Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• French green “puy” lentils – Provide structure and earthy flavor that holds up during cooking; avoid split peas for best texture.
• Large onion – Adds sweetness and depth; finely diced for even sautéing.
• Garlic (2 cloves) – Enhances flavor; minced for better distribution.
• Celery (2 stalks) – Contributes crunch and a fresh taste; finely diced.
• Potatoes (3 medium) – Adds heartiness and texture; peel and cut into 1/2” cubes.
• Carrots (2 medium) – Provides sweetness; peel and cut into 1/2” cubes.
• Canned crushed tomatoes (2 cups) – Offers acidity and brightness; use with juices for flavor; fresh can substitute if available.
• Chicken broth (5-6 cups) – Adds savory richness; adjust volume for desired thickness.
• Bacon (1 lb) – Infuses smoky depth; cut into small cubes, crispy preferred for texture.
• Fresh thyme and rosemary (a few sprigs, finely chopped) – Offers aromatic flavors; enhances overall depth.
• Bay leaves (2) – Adds herbal notes during simmering; remove before serving.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish; adds color and freshness.
• Sour cream (optional) – Adds creaminess and tang when served.
How to Make French Lentil Bacon Soup
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Prepare lentils: Soak the French green “puy” lentils in water for 12-24 hours, then drain and rinse them well before use to ensure they cook evenly.
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Cook bacon: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until it’s crispy and golden, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, saving about 4 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot.
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Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top, and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent.
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Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to soften and enhance its flavor in the mix.
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Simmer soup: Now, mix in the canned crushed tomatoes, prepared lentils, chopped potatoes, chicken broth, fresh herbs, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper, then let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until both the lentils and potatoes are tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth to achieve your desired consistency.
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Final seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary, making sure it’s perfectly flavorful to your liking.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the crispy bacon, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Optional: Serve with a hearty slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with French Lentil Bacon Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with the perfect accompaniments to enhance your comforting bowl of soup.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup, soaking up all those rich flavors. Consider a sourdough for added tang!
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vibrant greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the depth of the soup while adding a refreshing crunch. It’s a lovely way to incorporate some raw veggies!
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Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches or toasties filled with melty cheese provide a satisfying texture contrast, making every bite even more delightful. Try a sharp cheddar for extra flavor!
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Pickles or Fermented Veggies: The tanginess of pickles complements the richness of the soup wonderfully, adding brightness to each spoonful. They make a great palate cleanser in between bites!
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Herbed Rice: A fluffy bed of herbed rice can elevate your meal, soaking up the soup and adding a soft texture that harmonizes so well with the lentils.
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Red Wine: Enjoy a glass of carefully chosen red wine, like a Pinot Noir, to enhance the heartiness of your soup while adding a cozy, refined experience to your meal.
Expert Tips for French Lentil Bacon Soup
• Soaking Lentils: Soak the French green lentils for a minimum of 12 hours; this improves texture and reduces cooking time significantly.
• Crispy Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy. It not only adds flavor but also enhances the texture of your hearty soup.
• Quality Broth Matters: For a rich flavor, opt for a high-quality chicken broth; homemade or store-bought, just ensure it’s low sodium to control salt levels.
• Fresh Herbs: Using fresh thyme and rosemary elevates the soup’s aroma and flavor. Dried herbs can lack the vibrancy of their fresh counterparts.
• Taste Test: Don’t forget to taste your soup as it simmers! Adjust the seasoning and thickness to suit your preference for the best French Lentil Bacon Soup experience.
How to Store and Freeze French Lentil Bacon Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze French lentil bacon soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight; reheat gently on the stovetop and add a splash of broth if needed for consistency.
Keep it Fresh: For best flavor and texture, remember to consume the soup within the suggested timeframes, as freshness enhances your comfort food experience!
French Lentil Bacon Soup Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and make this soup your own with these delightful twists!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap in turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon for a plant-based alternative that’s still hearty and satisfying.
- Extra Greens: Toss in fresh kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables to spice things up and awaken your taste buds.
- Root Vegetable Replacement: Substitute potatoes for sweet potatoes or turnips for a subtle sweetness and different texture that enchants the soup.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a swirl of coconut cream or heavy cream for a luxurious, creamy texture that elevates every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like sage or dill to add unique aromatics and flavor notes to your soup.
These variations allow for an endless array of delicious possibilities to transform your French Lentil Bacon Soup into something uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These comforting French Lentil Bacon Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen during busy weeknights. You can soak the French green lentils up to 24 hours in advance, which will help them cook evenly later. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply follow the steps to cook the bacon, sauté the vegetables, and simmer everything together. This way, you’ll still get that delicious, hearty flavor without the hassle, making your mealtime feel like a warm hug!
French Lentil Bacon Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of lentils should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using French green “puy” lentils. These lentils maintain their shape during cooking and provide a wonderful earthy flavor. Avoid split peas, as they tend to become mushy and don’t lend the same satisfying texture to your soup.
How should I store leftovers?
After cooking, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick for your liking.
Can I freeze French Lentil Bacon Soup?
Definitely! Freezing is a great option to enjoy this comforting dish later. Place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion—freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my soup is too thick after simmering?
No worries! If your soup thickens more than you’d like, simply stir in additional chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. This is a common issue, especially if the lentils soak up too much liquid, and adjusting as you go is part of the fun!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re meal prepping for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust the recipe. For a vegetarian version, substitute turkey bacon or omit it entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, always be cautious of allergies; common allergens like celery and dairy (sour cream) can be swapped out for alternatives that suit your needs.
How can I ensure my bacon stays crispy in the soup?
Great question! To keep the bacon crispy, cook it until it’s nice and crunchy, then add it to the bowls just before serving. This way, the bacon retains its texture instead of becoming soggy in the soup. Enjoy!
Hearty French Lentil Bacon Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the French green "puy" lentils in water for 12-24 hours, then drain and rinse them well before use.
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium-low heat until it’s crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, saving about 4 tablespoons of the bacon fat.
- Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top and cook for about 8 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in the canned crushed tomatoes, prepared lentils, chopped potatoes, chicken broth, fresh herbs, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper, then let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.