Lentil and Canadian Bacon Soup

 

4 C. water

1 tsp. dried thyme leaves

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

2 cans (14 1/2 oz. each) vegetable broth

2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (1 C.)

1 medium potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (1 C.)

1 medium onion, finely chopped (1/2 C.)

1 medium celery stalk, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1 package (16 oz.) lentils (2 1/4 C.), sorted and rinsed

1 package (6 oz.) sliced Canadian-style bacon, coarsely chopped

 

Mix all ingredients in 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat setting 8 to 9 hours or until lentils are tender. Stir well before serving. 8 servings.