Lentil Soup with Homemade Croutons & Truffle Oil

I came up with this recipe to contribute to the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, to encourage the use of left overs alongside a few cupboard staples, in order to create a delicious wholesome and warming soup.  You will need 1 large carrot, a branch of celery, one or two small onions, some leftover bacon or pancetta (leave out for a veggie version). Chop finely and fry in a little olive oil. Then add 300g of green lentils, a bouquet garni (I just picked a bay leaf and some thyme from my garden). Season and cover with vegetable stock. Simmer for 25min or until lentils are cooked. Meanwhile, chop two slices of stale bread, drizzle with olive oil and bake in the oven at 200oc for 8-10mn. Partially blitz the soup when cooked, add croutons and drizzle with Truffle Oil for a gourmet finish. Bon appétit !