Lentil Soup

It was cold and dreary here a couple of days last week and this family needed some comfort food. This did the trick for dinner and several lunches thereafter. A great vegan/vegetarian option if anyone is interested.

Lentil Soup

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 pound lentils (approximately 1 1/4 cups)
11 cups vegetable broth (can substitute water)
4 to 6 fresh thyme sprigs

1. Heat the oil in a heavy large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper and sauté until all the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 8 minutes.
2. Add the tomatoes with their juices. Simmer until the juices evaporate a little and the tomatoes break down, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, mix to coat. Add the broth and stir. Add the thyme sprigs. Bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Cover and simmer over low heat until the lentils and barley are tender, about 40 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil and serve.