In a large saucepan over a medium heat fry the bacon for 5 minutes until crispy. Pour off most of the fat.
Add onions, garlic and carrots and cook and stir for 2 minutes until soft.
Stir in the tomatoes with juice, bay leaves, thyme, red lentils, salt and chicken stock and bring to the boil. Cover, reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, until lentils are soft.
Remove bay leaves and stir in balsamic vinegar. Garnish with parsley and serve.