Lentil Soup
RUSTIC SOUPLentil Soup is one of those soups that can be refreshing even in the summertime. Like most Italian soups this one is made with pasta. I prefer ditali, the small tubular shaped pasta for this dish. This rustic soup hearty and delicious. In Italy, lentils are often used in first courses, salads and soups. In different regions of Italy they used in pastas, risotto, rice and various meat dishes. Lentils with sausage, lentils with lamb and lentils with oxtails are just a few dishes lentils are used in. Lentils are small dried legumes which come in a variety of different colors, the most common being brown. Compared to other dried beans, lentils are quick to prepare. They are low in fat and high in protein and fiber. Be careful not to overcook them because they can get mushy. This Lentil Soup recipe goes back to my Great Grandmother. It’s a traditional Italian recipe which should be enjoyed by all.
INGREDIENTS 1 pound of dried brown lentils1 large yellow onion, chopped2 stalks of celery, chopped2 carrots, chopped3 cloves of garlic, chopped2Tbls of extra virgin olive oil1 slice of pancetta, chopped1 15oz can of diced tomatoes2 sprigs of fresh rosemary1 tsp of dried thyme2 bay leaves6 cups of beef or vegetable stock1 pound of spinach or escarole1/ tsp of salt˝ tsp of fresh ground black pepper1 pound of ditali pasta
PREPARATION In a large pot sauté the pancetta in the olive oil until lightly brown.Add the garlic, onions, carrots and celery for 2 minutes until tender.Add the lentils, thyme, rosemary and bay leaves.Drizzle with a little more olive oil and cook for 2 more minutesSeason with salt and pepperAdd the broth and tomatoes and bring to a boilReduce the heat and simmer for about an hourAdd the spinach or escarole for about 10 more minutes until leaves are wilted.Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. About 8 minutes.Remove the bay leaves and the rosemary from the soup before serving.Add the pasta to a bowl and ladle the soup on top. Serves about 8 people
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