Spicy Lentil, Bacon & Vegetable Soup

For my first recipe it had to be this spicy lentil, bacon and vegetable soup, my kids favourite. A proper winter warmer, best served with crusty bread.

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 220g streaky bacon, finely chopped
• 200g carrot, finely chopped
• 200g onion, finely chopped
• 200g celery, finely chopped
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp garlic paste
• 1 tsp chopped red chilli (e.g. Very Lazy)
• 500g red lentils, rinsed
• 2.5 litres chicken stock

Method

1. Dry fry the bacon in a large saucepan, until cooked and fat rendered, approx. 10 minutes.
2. Add carrot, onion and celery and cook until tender, approx. 10 minutes, stirring regularly.
3. Stir in the turmeric, cumin, garlic and chilli.
4. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in the lentils and stock.
6. Bring to a fast boil.
7. Reduce to a gentle simmer.
8. Cover and cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft.

Serve and enjoy!

p.s. As I become proficient at this blogging lark, I will start posting pictures!