Saxon Lentil Soup (Sächsische Linsensuppe)

Sächsische Linsensuppe, or Saxon Lentil Soup, is a traditional dish from the Saxon region of Germany. This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a comforting meal, especially during the colder months.

Saxon Lentil Soup (Sächsische Linsensuppe)

Ingredients

  • 500g brown lentils, rinsed
  • 200g smoked bacon, diced
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1.5L vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Apple cider vinegar for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy bacon and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
15g
Fat
5g

Supplies

Large pot Chopping board Knife Wooden spoon

Tools

Potato masher (optional)

Serving suggestions

Sächsische Linsensuppe is best served with crusty bread or a slice of hearty rye bread.

Tips & tricks

For a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the cooked lentils before serving.

Cost

$10