Introduction
This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinner parties. It combines the rich taste of smoked bacon with a medley of vegetables, lentils, and tomatoes, creating a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you choose to use beef or pork, the result is a comforting meal that is sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 teaspoons dried rosemary or ½ a bunch of fresh rosemary (15g)
6 rashers of smoked streaky bacon or smoked pancetta
Olive oil
750g minced beef or pork
8 cloves of garlic
500g fresh or frozen chopped mixed onions, carrots, and celery
5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 x 400g tins of lentils
4 x 400g tins of chopped or plum tomatoes
Prep Time
Approximately 20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
This recipe is not just about the ingredients; it’s a journey of flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen with warmth. By following these straightforward steps, you can create a delightful dish that brings everyone together at the table. Enjoy your cooking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Place a large deep casserole pan over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add Herbs and Bacon
Pick and finely chop the rosemary leaves. Finely slice the bacon or pancetta, and add them to the pan along with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir regularly until lightly golden.
Step 3: Cook the Minced Meat
Add the minced beef or pork to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring regularly to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Vegetables
Peel and finely chop the garlic. Add it to the pan along with the chopped mixed onions, carrots, and celery. Season with sea salt and black pepper, and cook for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Incorporate Balsamic Vinegar
Stir in the balsamic vinegar and let it cook away, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add Lentils
Add the three tins of lentils, including their juice, to the pan, mixing well.
Step 7: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add the four tins of chopped or plum tomatoes to the mixture. Half-fill each of the four empty tomato tins with water, swirl to collect any remaining tomato product, and pour the water into the pan.
Step 8: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a medium-low heat. Let it simmer for 2 hours, or until thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 9: Final Seasoning and Serving
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Serve hot.
Notes
Note 1: Fresh vs Dried Herbs
If using fresh rosemary, ensure you finely chop it to release its flavors effectively.
Note 2: Meat Variation
You can use minced beef or pork interchangeably based on your preference.
Note 3: Cooking Time
Simmering for the full 2 hours allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken properly.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for later use.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Chopping and Preparing Herbs
Start by picking the leaves from the rosemary stems, and finely chop them to release their flavor. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add aromatic depth.
Rendering Bacon or Pancetta
Slicing the smoked streaky bacon or pancetta into small pieces allows for even cooking. Render in olive oil over medium-high heat until lightly golden, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.
Brown the Meat
Adding minced beef or pork to the pan should be done in small increments to ensure even browning. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks for about 15 minutes.
Chopping Garlic and Vegetables
Finely chop the garlic and prepare a mix of onions, carrots, and celery. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and fortifies the dish’s flavor base.
Deglazing with Balsamic Vinegar
Pour balsamic vinegar into the pan and scrape the bottom to release any browned bits; this adds an underlying richness to the dish. Allow it to cook off the acidity before adding other ingredients.
Incorporating Lentils and Tomatoes
Add lentils with their juice and canned tomatoes to create a hearty consistency. The lentils provide protein and fiber, making the dish filling and nutritious.
Simmering for Flavor Development
Bringing the mixture to a boil and then reducing to a simmer allows all the flavors to meld. Simmering for 2 hours helps thicken the dish and deepens the taste.
FAQ
Can I use fresh lentils instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh lentils, but they will require additional cooking time and more water.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the minced meat and bacon with plant-based alternatives, and ensure the broth or liquid used complements a vegetarian diet.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and reheat thoroughly before serving.
How do I adjust the thickness of the dish?
If you want a thicker consistency, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner texture, add more water or broth during cooking.
Conclusion
This rich and hearty dish combines the robust flavors of smoked bacon and minced meat with the wholesome goodness of lentils and vegetables. The use of balsamic vinegar adds a delightful tang, while the slow simmering process ensures a depth of flavor that is sure to please. Serving this dish warms the heart and is perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Lentil Stew
Substitute the minced meat with additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Meatball Variation
Instead of cooking the minced meat directly in the pan, form meatballs and brown them separately before adding them to the sauce for a different texture.
Chili Con Carne
Add chili powder and kidney beans to the mix for a spicy twist. This variation goes great with rice or cornbread.
Baked Stuffed Peppers
Use the cooked mixture to stuff halved bell peppers, then bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender.
Shepherd’s Pie
Top the cooked mixture with mashed potatoes and bake until golden for a comforting shepherd’s pie twist.
