I start off by soaking the lentils in water (just like you soak beans before cooking-about an hour) After the lentils have soaked and expanded, fry bacon, diced onions, diced carrots and minced garlic in a deep pan or pot. Once they are browed, crumble the bacon, add the lentils and chicken broth - about 1 or 2, 8 oz. cans, depending on how much you are making. You can also add water if liquid gets too low before lentils are done. Cover and cook until lentils are soft. Serve over rice with hot sauce (if you like hot sauce) and buttered cornbread on the side. Even my kids love lentils cooked this way.