Let’s Talk Lentils-3 Recipes From 1 Dish: Bacon Lentils

Instructions

Heat a dutch oven or large pot over medium heat and cook bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, then add onion to grease until softened, about 7 min and add garlic for another minute. Add the lentils, tomatoes and broth to deglaze the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low/medium, cover and simmer for 25-40 minutes, stirring and keeping an eye on the lentils as you want them to soften but not be mush. When the lentils are tender, add the salt, chili powder, red pepper flakes, paprika, lemon juice, white wine or vinegar and simmer for 5 or so minutes. Place in bowls to serve and top with bacon and cheese. With the leftovers, you can make one or both of the following recipes.

* Add 1 more cup of broth, 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) and melt cheddar cheese to the lentil leftovers to make a dip that is great with pita chips or bread and vegetables like carrots and cauliflower. If you are worried about not having enough to feed your family or guests, add some cooked and smashed black beans or other beans. Or add 2-3 more cups of broth to make a soup and mash some of the lentils to thicken and top with more cheese. I used sharp cheddar which worked well with the smoky flavor. I think the soup could benefit from another cup of diced fire-roasted tomatoes to feed more people but that is up to you. These recipes can last for days from basically one lentil dish. It’s economical, filling, fairly healthy and will serve quite a few people.

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bacon, chili, soup