Ham and Lentil Soup (Slow Cooker)

Ingredients

• 6 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 medium onion (chopped finely)
• 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups diced ham (or more, to taste)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Fry the bacon until crispy in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 10 min). Transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet.

2. 2

   Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened and lightly browned.

3. 3

   Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then transfer the skillet mixture to your slow cooker.

4. 4

   Add the cooked bacon to the slow cooker, along with the ham, chicken broth, tomato sauce, lentils, Italian seasoning, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.

5. 5

   Season with salt & pepper as needed.