Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 1 carrot, halved lengthwise and sliced thin crosswise
• 1 small onion, sliced thin
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 small bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup lentils, picked over and rinsed
• 1/3 cup chopped smoked ham
• 1/2 cup finely chopped drained bottled roasted red peppers
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, or to taste