Food Tip
Garam masala is a spice blend that contains up to 12 spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger powder and more. This spice exudes rich flavor; however, add just before you finish your dish so its full aroma is present.
Meat Pairing Guide: Bacon
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Spicy Bacon and Lentil Soup
PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES, SERVES 1
Bacon is used as a natural base in this popular soup. Its taste complements the earthiness of the lentils. Although subtle, the taste buds in the back of your mouth will appreciate the bacon, while exotic Indian spices round out the flavors of this dish. Perfect for a winter day!
2 slices HORMEL® NATURAL CHOICE™ Original or Lower Sodium Bacon
1 (18-ounce) can store-bought or Spicy Lentil Soup*
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Cook bacon according to package direction. Chop into smaller pieces. Prepare soup according to packaging direction. Add chopped bacon and remaining ingredients.
* TRY MAKING IT FROM SCRATCH!
Spicy Lentil Soup
1 small onion, quartered
½ cup carrot, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons CARAPELLI® Olive Oil
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon garam masala
Salt, to taste
2 cups lentils
6 cups water
1 bay leaf
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Heat oven to 400°F. Place onion, carrot and bell pepper on baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with cayenne pepper, cumin, coriander, garam masala, black pepper and salt to taste. Roast 20 minutes. In large pot over medium heat, combine lentils, water, bay leaf, thyme and roasted vegetables. Cook 20 to 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lentils are soft. Remove and discard bay leaf. In blender, process soup mixture until smooth.
