Warm Lentil Soup with Pancetta Recipe

Name: Warm Lentil Soup with Pancetta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 ounces thinly sliced pancetta,* cut into thin strips; 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped celery (about 3 stalks); 1 1/2 cups chopped white onion (about 1 medium); 3/4 cup chopped carrot; 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 head of garlic, most of outer skin removed, cut in half crosswise; 2 small bay leaves; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1 pound French green lentils, rinsed, drained; 10 cups (or more) low-salt chicken broth; 2 tablespoons whipping cream; 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar; 8 green onions, cut crosswise into quarters, then cut lengthwise into thin strips

Servings: persons

3 ounces thinly sliced pancetta,* cut into thin strips
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped celery (about 3 stalks)
1 1/2 cups chopped white onion (about 1 medium)
3/4 cup chopped carrot
2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 head of garlic, most of outer skin removed, cut in half crosswise
2 small bay leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 pound French green lentils, rinsed, drained
10 cups (or more) low-salt chicken broth
2 tablespoons whipping cream
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
8 green onions, cut crosswise into quarters, then cut lengthwise into thin strips

1
Saute pancetta in heavy large pot over medium-high heat until crisp and brown.
2
Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain (do not clean pot).
3
Spoon 1 tablespoon drippings into medium skillet and reserve.
4
Add celery, onion, carrot, bacon, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme to remaining drippings in pot and saute until vegetables are soft, about 8 minutes.
5
Add lentils and stir 1 minute.
6
Add 10 cups broth; bring to simmer.
7
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered until lentils are soft, about 1 hour.
8
Discard bay leaves and garlic.
9
Using slotted spoon, transfer 2 cups lentils to small bowl; cover and reserve.
10
Working in batches, puree remaining soup until almost smooth.
11
Return to pot.
12
Add cream and vinegar.
13
Thin with more broth to desired consistency.
14
Season with salt and pepper.
15
Reheat pancetta drippings in reserved skillet over medium-high heat.
16
Add green onions; saute until wilted, about 1 minute.
17
Divide soup among bowls.
18
Spoon lentils in center of each bowl, dividing equally.
19
Garnish with pancetta and green onions and serve.
20
*Pancetta, Italian bacon cured in salt, is available at Italian markets, some specialty foods stores, and some supermarkets.

1680

kcal

Calories

Fat

123

Carbs

218

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 3 ounces thinly sliced pancetta,* cut into thin strips, 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped celery (about 3 stalks), 1 1/2 cups chopped white onion (about 1 medium), 3/4 cup chopped carrot, and more.

Yes, Warm Lentil Soup with Pancetta falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Warm Lentil Soup with Pancetta

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions