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Linsen mit Speck

Linsen mit Speck is the Austrian lentil dish of green lentils simmered with smoky bacon, root vegetables, and a splash of vinegar. It is a thrifty home classic, often served with Spätzle or sausages.

55 minEasyServes 4400 cal/serving

AustrianDinnerStovetopStandard

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups green lentils, rinsed
  • 4 1/2 cups water
  • 8 oz smoked bacon (for speck), diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled, diced
  • 2 celery stalk, diced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook 8 oz diced smoked bacon (for speck) in a large pot over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Check a piece with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 160°F. Remove half of it to a plate for garnish.

  2. 2

    Add 1 medium finely diced yellow onion, 1 medium peeled, diced carrot, and 2 diced celery stalk to the fat in the pot. Cook 6 minutes, until soft.

  3. 3

    Add 1 1/2 cups rinsed green lentils, 4 1/2 cups water, 2 bay leaves, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

  4. 4

    Cook uncovered 25 to 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Add a splash of water if the pot gets dry.

  5. 5

    Remove the bay leaves. Stir in 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Taste and adjust.

  6. 6

    Serve in bowls, topped with the reserved smoked bacon (for speck) and 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley.

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Questions

What is Linsen mit Speck?

Linsen mit Speck is the Austrian lentil dish of green lentils simmered with smoky bacon, root vegetables, and a splash of vinegar. It is a thrifty home classic, often served with Spätzle or sausages. This reference files it under Austrian dinner: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 55 minutes start to finish.

How much time should I plan for Linsen mit Speck?

As written, 55 minutes: 15 of prep and 40 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 4 (30 minutes): "Cook uncovered 25 to 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape."

What internal temperature should Linsen mit Speck reach?

For Linsen mit Speck, the target internal temperature is 160 F (about 70 C), given in step 1. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of bacon in Linsen mit Speck?

Yes. Turkey bacon renders almost no fat, so add a tablespoon of oil wherever the method counts on the drippings. As written, the entry for Linsen mit Speck uses 8 oz smoked bacon (for speck), diced.

How do I store and reheat Linsen mit Speck?

Refrigerate what is left of Linsen mit Speck within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

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