Sopa de Lentejas Feature in Southern Living Magazine

I always enjoyed it when my grandmother added lentils to the weekly rotation, but I really wish I knew how to make her version. A couple of my aunts recommended that I include Betty’s lentils in my cookbook because her recipe is similar to my grandmother’s lentils. Betty is known for making this one pot meal that comes together easily, and she often makes it for her grandchildren. If you taste these bacon infused lentils I’m convinced that you’ll keep a package of dried lentils and bacon on hand to make them when the cravings hit. I make this dish by following Betty’s recipe, and with a tip that my mother taught me for freezing bacon. I take each slice of bacon in the package and roll it from end to end into a little rolled bundle. I fill a resealable freezer bag with a single layer of these bacon bundles. The individual bundles easily separate and quickly thaw with a few seconds in the microwave. I cook the bacon in Betty’s simple lentil preparation which is packed with creamy, chewy and hearty textures and can be prepared in about 45 minutes. I’ve prepared this recipe on many occasions and everyone has enjoyed this rich and comforting dish. See the feature article with this recipe in Souther Living Magazine Jan/Feb 2025 issue.

Sopa de Lentejas

Servings: 6

YvetteZunigaJemison.com

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Featured in Southern Living Magazine Jan/Feb 2025 issue

¾ lb. bacon, chopped

1 cup Roma tomatoes, chopped

½ cup green onions, chopped

1 ¼ cup (8 oz.) lentils

1 tablespoon granulated chicken bouillon

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon chili powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

5 cups water

1. Cook the bacon in a medium stock pot on medium heat, until the fat is rendered and the

bacon is crispy, about 10 minutes.

2. Add the tomatoes and green onions and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are tender,

about 2 minutes.

3. Add the lentils, bouillon, cumin, chili powder, black pepper and stir well.

4. Pour the water into the pot and stir well. Bring to a boil, and immediately reduce to a

simmer. Cover the pot and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.

5. Turn off the heat and let the lentils sit, covered, for 15 minutes. Serve warm.

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