Hairy Bikers Lentil and Bacon Soup Recipe

The Lentil and Bacon Soup by the Hairy Bikers is a classic example of comfort food, ideal for chilly days or as a hearty meal at any time. It combines the smokiness of bacon with the earthiness of lentils and a mix of vegetables, resulting in a soup that's both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is a part of the Hairy Bikers' collection known for its straightforward yet delicious approach to traditional dishes.

Ingredients for the Lentil and Bacon Soup

For this soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Red lentils (200g or approximately 7oz), thoroughly rinsed and drained to ensure they're clean and free from any debris.
• A mix of aromatic vegetables including onions, finely chopped red peppers, and a clove of garlic to build the flavor base.
• Smoked back bacon (75g or about 2¾oz), with all fat trimmed and finely chopped, to add a depth of smoky flavor.
• Chicken or vegetable stock (1.5 litres or about 6 cups) as the liquid base of the soup, enriching it with more flavor.
• Additional ingredients like a small sweet potato, finely diced for sweetness, a sprig of thyme, and a bay leaf for herbal notes, and seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Preparation Instructions

The soup's preparation involves several key steps:

1. Start with the bacon: Cook it until crisp and golden, then set it aside, keeping some of the fat in the pot for sautéing the vegetables.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Cook them until soft and translucent, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
3. Combine lentils and stock: Add these to the pot with the sautéed vegetables, bringing everything to a boil before simmering to cook the lentils thoroughly.
4. Final touches: Stir in some of the cooked bacon and, if you like, a bit of cream for extra richness, then finish with seasoning to taste.

For serving, garnish with fresh parsley and the remaining bacon, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or stock if it's too thick.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this soup is approximately 287 calories, with 14.5g of fat, 24.5g of carbohydrates, 15g of protein, and a good amount of fiber at 7g.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan? Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock, replacing the cream with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.
• Which lentils are best for this soup? Red lentils are ideal as they cook quickly and break down to thicken the soup naturally.
• Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely, it freezes well. Just cool it down first, then store in a freezer-safe container.

The Hairy Bikers' Lentil and Bacon Soup is a wonderfully comforting dish, easy to make, and brimming with flavors. It's versatile enough to adjust to your dietary needs and perfect for making ahead and freezing. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal to warm you up or a nutritious option for your meal plans, this soup is sure to satisfy.