Hearty Lentil Herb Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons bacon fat, reserved OR 2 olive oil
1 1/2 c onion, chopped
1 1/2 c carrot, chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomato with juice
1 bag (2 cups) dried lentils
1 tablespoon italian herbs
8 c water or chicken broth

Preparation

Fry bacon, drain and set aside. Heat bacon fat or oil over medium high for two minutes and add onions, carrots, and garlic. Stir-fry the mixture until onions are golden brown (about 8 minutes). Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, lentils, italian seasoning, and broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes or until lentils are tender. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Add bacon bits as topping. Serve immediately or refrigerate overnight. Freezes well.