Lentil Soup

Posted this last year, and I'm posting it again.  Because you need it.

Lentil Soup

i grew up on this soup. it's surprisingly delicious. it has become a "metaphor for life" in our home.

1/4 lb bacon sliced

2 med. onions chopped

4 large carrots, grated or chopped small

1 pkg (16 oz) lentils

2 quarts water

1 c. sliced celery

1 large potato, grated

2 1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp dry thyme

2 bay leaves

2 tbsp lemon juice

leftover chopped ham (i used 3 ham steaks) or 1 can spam. yes, you read that right. i have never actually been able to but spam in it myself, although i grew up on it with spam in it and loved it. i think sausage in it would be deelicious, too.

wash beans and soak until plump (overnight). In large pot, saute bacon , add onions and carrots and saute until onions are golden. add lentils, water, celery, potato and seasonings. simmer until tender (2-3 hours) take out bay leaves, add lemon juice and meat. 

i like to eat it with saltine crackers.