Ingredients

1

pint glass jar with lid

1

cup dried red lentils, sorted

2

tablespoons julienne-cut smoked sun-dried tomatoes (from 3-oz package)

2

tablespoons cooked real bacon pieces or bits (from 3-oz jar)

1

bay leaf

1/2

cup dried brown lentils, sorted

2

teaspoons dried minced onion

1

tablespoon parsley flakes

1

teaspoon dried basil leaves

1

carton (32 oz) Progresso™ chicken broth (4 cups)

1

cup water

3/4

cup sliced carrots, if desired

Preparation

In glass jar, place 1/2 cup of the red lentils; top with sun-dried tomatoes and bacon pieces. Place bay leaf, stem side down, against side of jar. Layer brown lentils over bacon; top with dried minced onion, parsley flakes, basil and remaining 1/2 cup red lentils. Cover; refrigerate until ready to make soup or up to 2 weeks.

In 2-quart saucepan, place contents of jar. Stir in broth, water and carrots. Heat to boiling over medium heat; reduce heat to low. Cover; simmer 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender. Remove bay leaf before serving.