Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup

So, apparently it's been a while since I remembered to write! The last time we were at one of favorite restaurant's (Carrabbas), I had a fantastic Spicy lentil soup. I loved it so much I made a mental note of the basic ingredients. It took a while, but I'm finally getting around to playing with it. This was the first attempt and, while not perfect, it was pretty darn good. As an added bonus, the house smelled incredible! Serve with crusty Italian bread.

Spicy Sausage and Lentil Soup

1 package Italian sausage (hot if you like spice! I prefer Jennie-O Hot Italian turkey sausage links)
4 pieces bacon (slice into small bits with scissors before cooking)
1 c finely chopped onion (about 2 small)
4 carrots, finely chopped or shredded
1 t. minced garlic
5 c chicken broth
5-7 c water
1 lb dry lentils
2 T. vinegar
2 tsp. basil
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp oregano
1 tsp parsley
1 1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Add bacon and onions in bottom of large pot. Fry over med. heat until onions begin to soften. Add carrots. If sausage is in casing, remove from casing and add. Chop into small pieces as it cooks. Cover and cook 5-10 min, until sausage begins to brown. Add chicken broth, lentils and spices. Heat to boiling, then reduce heat and simmer 1-2 hours. Add water as needed to desired thickness.