"Basic ingredients are all that is needed to make this oh so satisfying and flavorful soup...."
INGREDIENTS
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8 strips of bacon*
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1 cup diced onion**
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1 cup thinly sliced carrots
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1 cup chopped celery
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4 garlic cloves, grated/minced
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2 teaspoons dried oregano (or Italian seasonings)
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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64 ounces vegetable stock
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30 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices***
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1 pound dried lentils, rinsed and drained
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1 bay leaf
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1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more to taste)
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optional garnish: grated cheese, fresh herbs