LENTIL AND BARLEY SOUP WITH PANCETTA

SERVES 4 to 6

Nothing is better than a bowl of hot soup, and this recipe is no exception. The combination of the lentils and barley is outstanding. The pancetta, an Italian cured bacon, adds an extra layer of flavor that I love, and a little goes a long way. If you can’t find it, just substitute a good-quality bacon or ham. The flavor will be slightly different, since pancetta is not smoked. Alternately, if you prefer a vegetarian soup, omit the bacon, substitute vegetable broth, and add just a little more of the seasonings. This is easy, healthy and absolutely delicious. I will make it often.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons olive oil, preferably extra-virgin

2 to 3 ounces pancetta, chopped (can use thick bacon or ham)

2 large ribs celery, chopped (about 1 cup)

2 large carrots, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)

1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

6 large garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons tomato paste

6 cups homemade or low-sodium beef broth

2 cups water (more as needed)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

2 dried bay leaves

1 cup dry lentils

1 cup medium pearl barley

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, pancetta, carrots, celery and onions. Sauté until pancetta is lightly browned and vegetables are slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté another minute. Add the tomato paste and stir until well-combined. Stir in the broth and water. Add the thyme, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Add lentils and barley. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until barley and lentils are tender, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. If soup is too thick, add a little water. Serve immediately, or remove from heat for no more than 20 minutes, passing the cheese separately.

Note: This is great leftover. Just add a little more water if it thickens too much. I also like to drizzle the individual servings with a little extra-virgin olive oil, but it is not necessary.

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