The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup is a delightful dish that brings together savory turkey strips, tender lentils, and fresh vegetables in one hearty pot. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prepping for the week, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it comforting and satisfying, ensuring it will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just one pot needed, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with protein-rich turkey and nutritious lentils, making it a great choice for a filling meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: The recipe can be easily adapted to include your favorite vegetables or any leftover produce you have at home.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time to save time during busy weeks while enjoying delicious leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking this soup easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron or soup pot
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron or soup pot: Ideal for even heat distribution and perfect for simmering soups.
• Slotted spoon: Great for removing cooked turkey strips without excess fat.
• Blender: Helps achieve a creamy texture by blending part of the soup for added richness.

Ingredients

To create The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 250 g turkey strips (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 175 g green lentils
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 4 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Texture and Nutrition

• 6 mini potatoes (quartered)
• 1 litre vegetable stock
• 100 g baby spinach
• Juice of 1 lemon

How to Make The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Strips

Heat the olive oil in a cast iron or soup pot over medium heat. Add the turkey strips and cook until browned and crispy. Remove the turkey strips with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Lentils

Stir in the fresh rosemary, dried oregano, and thyme. Add the green lentils along with quartered mini potatoes. Stir well to coat them in the remaining fat while mixing with the vegetables.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable stock and bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer; cook for about 20 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

Place about one-third of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth. Return this blended portion back into the pot; stir well to incorporate.

Step 6: Finish the Soup

Add lemon juice along with baby spinach. Stir until spinach wilts. Return cooked turkey strips to the pot; mix thoroughly before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful bowl of The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup!

How to Serve The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

Serving this hearty One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. There are various ways to enhance your serving, ensuring everyone enjoys every spoonful.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley or cilantro: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Drizzle with olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf can be perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully while adding a crunchy texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Add grated cheese: A sprinkle of aged cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top enhances the soup’s savory notes.
• Vegan cheese options: For a dairy-free choice, consider using nut-based cheeses that melt well.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a delightful texture and balances the soup’s warmth.

How to Perfect The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

Perfecting your One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Use quality stock: Opt for homemade or low-sodium vegetable stock for a richer flavor without excess salt.
• Soak lentils if needed: If you have time, soaking green lentils for a few hours can reduce cooking time and improve texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste the soup before serving; feel free to add more herbs or spices as desired.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without needing heavy creams, enhancing mouthfeel.

Best Side Dishes for The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crusty Bread – Warm, hearty bread is ideal for dipping into the rich soup.
2. Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta provides a vibrant contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor alongside the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad – Light quinoa tossed with lemon juice, herbs, and vegetables makes for a nutritious side.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or beans offer additional protein and fiber.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet potatoes provide an earthy complement that pairs well with lentils.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can help you create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong type of lentils: Not all lentils cook at the same rate. Use green lentils for their firmness and ability to hold shape in this soup.
• Overcooking the turkey strips: Cook them until browned but don’t overdo it; they will be added back later, so they only need to be partially cooked.
• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland soup. Ensure you taste as you go and adjust with herbs and spices.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess and enhances texture. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Forgetting about acid: Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors. Make sure to include it at the end for a fresh finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in containers.

Freezing The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
• Label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup.

Can I use different meats in The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup?

Yes! You can substitute turkey with chicken, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I make The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup vegetarian?

Simply omit the turkey and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while adding more veggies for flavor.

What can I serve with The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How long does The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

The Best One Pot Bacon and Lentil Soup is a versatile dish that combines hearty ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting herbs according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!