A Grape Picker S Lunch Sausages And Lentils With Thyme And Wine Recipe

Ingredients for A Grape Picker S Lunch Sausages And Lentils With Thyme And Wine

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Smoked Bacon
• 1 pound meaty sausages (Toulouse, venison, or Angus beef)
• Onions
• Fresh Thyme
• Dry Green Lentils
• Garlic Cloves
• Beef Stock
• Red Wine
• Salt
• Pepper

How to Make A Grape Picker S Lunch Sausages And Lentils With Thyme And Wine

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large casserole dish (like a Le Creuset or Dutch oven) over medium heat. Fry 4 slices of bacon until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the rendered bacon fat. Add 1 pound of sausages to the pot and brown them on all sides.
3. Remove the sausages and set aside.
4. Add 1 large chopped onion to the pot and increase the heat. Cook until softened and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Return the sausages to the pot. Add 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, 1 cup green Puy lentils, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or beef stock and 1 cup of red wine (a local wine is best, if available!).
7. Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer for 35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sausages are cooked through.
8. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Crumble the reserved crispy bacon over the dish just before serving, along with a few fresh thyme sprigs.
9. Serve directly from the pot, family-style, with assorted fresh salads, crusty bread, cheese, and wine.
10. Enjoy! Vive la vendange!