Linsensuppe

Linsensuppe is a German lentil soup that is utterly fabulous. I've made this dish for company and potlucks so many times. Even people who claim to not be fond of lentils usually love it.

I blame the bacon.

Brown:

• 4 rashers of bacon, minced
• 4 – 6 sausages, sliced into rounds (pretty much any type will do, but I like bratwurst best)

Heat together in a large pot:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 finely diced onion
• 1 leek, finely chopped
• 3 carrot, finely diced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 2 bay leaves

Add:

• 1 can of lentils, well rinsed
• 4 cups of water or stock

Simmer for about a half hour. Good with a loaf of dense artisan bread or homemade biscuits and butter.