Braised Lentils with Brown Rice and Sunflower Seeds

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil. Add the bacon, onion, carrot and garlic and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the lentils, water and bay leaf, season with salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Cover partially and simmer over very low heat until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes. Discard the bay leaf and stir in the rice and sunflower seeds. Season the lentils with salt and pepper and serve.