German Lentil Soup with Frankfurter Slices and Bacon
A hearty German lentil soup featuring brown lentils simmered with aromatic vegetables, crispy bacon, and sliced frankfurters. This comforting soup combines the earthy flavors of lentils with savory bacon and mild frankfurters, creating a satisfying meal perfect for cold weather. The vegetables add freshness and texture, while fresh parsley brightens the rich, warming broth. Traditional German comfort food that makes an excellent lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown lentilsgreen lentils1:1vegetarian
similar cooking time but slightly different texture
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 leek, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 4 ounces lean baconsmoked turkey1:1lower-fat
reduces fat content while maintaining smoky flavor
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 ¼ cups water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra to garnish
- 8 ounces frankfurters, slicedturkey sausage1:1lower-fat
lighter option with similar texture
- salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1
Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold running water
- 2
Heat oil in a large pan and gently fry onion for 5 minutes until soft
- 3
Add leek, carrot, celery, bacon and bay leaves
- 4
Add lentils and water to the pan and slowly bring to a boil
- 5
Skim the surface and simmer half-covered for 45-50 minutes or until the lentils are soft
- 6
Remove piece of bacon, cut into small cubes trimming off any excess fat and return bacon cubes to the pot
- 7
Add parsley and frankfurter slices and season with salt and pepper to taste
- 8
Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes
- 9
Remove bay leaves and serve garnished with the extra parsley
Tips
Brown lentils don't need soaking before cooking, just a thorough rinse
Skim the surface while simmering to remove any foam for a clearer broth
Trim excess fat from bacon when cutting into cubes for better texture
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3 days in covered container
Can be made 1 day ahead, flavors improve overnight
Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls
Common Mistakes
Don't skip skimming the surface to avoid cloudy broth
Trim bacon fat properly to prevent greasy soup
Substitutions
reduces fat content while maintaining smoky flavor
lighter option with similar texture
FAQ
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients except frankfurters in slow cooker and cook on low 6-8 hours. Add frankfurters in last 30 minutes.
What if I can't find frankfurters?
Substitute with any mild sausage like kielbasa or bratwurst, or use cooked ham for a different flavor profile.
How long will this soup keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop.