I used to make traditional German lentil soup (Linseneintopf) from freeze dried soup mix. When they discontinued that product, I was really bummed. Since then I’ve learned to make my own and it’s so much better, it’s unbelievable.

it’s so much better, it’s unbelievable.

Don’t leave us hanging. What’s your recipe?

Alright, here you go. This is not very precise so use your own discretion.

Dice two large onions. Fry in oil until lightly brown. Add 200 gr of diced bacon. Add 200 gr of diced celery root Add 300 gr. of diced carrots Add 200 gr. of chopped leek Fry for a while, stirring continuously Add half a liter of water Add 2 table spoons of vegetable broth Add a can of brown lentils Simmer for about 30 minutes Add water as needed Add a few tablespoons of chopped parsley Add salt, pepper, pimento, paprika, and whatever else takes your fancy Add a tablespoon of balsamico vinegar (this may be a bit controversial)

That should about do it. All quantities are suggestions. This is very much a make it up as you go along kind of thing.

I’d clarify (heh) the broth- you want two tablespoons of broth concentrate or powder. I’d just say half a litre of broth, and leave it up to the cook to decide whether to use it from concentrate or from a carton.