1 - 14ozcan diced tomatoesI like the basil, garlic version for even more flavor
1teaspoonfresh thyme
1cuplentilsI use organic, green but you can use brown or red too
1teaspoonsaltOr to taste
pepper to taste
1/2cupwhite wine
4cupschicken brothor use vegetable broth if making vegetarian
2cupswater
1teaspoonbalsamic vinegar
Dried herbs de Provence or Italian blend to taste
Instructions
Brown the bacon in a large soup pot or dutch oven. Set aside and crumble. Leave bacon drippings in the pot. If making vegetarian, heat vegetable oil until hot.
Add onions, celery and carrots to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add garlic, then stir in tomatoes and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in lentils, salt, and pepper; cover, reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 8-10 minutes.
Uncover, increase heat to high, add wine, and bring to simmer. Add chicken or vegetable broth and water, bring to boil, cover partially, and reduce heat to low. Add your dried herbs de Provence (or other dried blend).
Simmer for 20-30 minutes, until vegetables and lentils are softened.
Stir in vinegar, bacon if you are using it.
Top with some grated cheese and serve with some fresh bread for a delicious meal.